The VSU NAACP, Black Student League, and National Pan-Hellenic Council will work together to kick off Black History month with a week full of events and activities dedicated to the celebration of black history starting Jan. 31.

These events are targeted toward advocating leadership, culture, and unity.

“It’s something they haven’t seen before,” said Kameron Farrow, junior biology major, and president of BSL. “There is something for everybody from a beauty fashion show to a unity basketball tournament, everybody should participate and enjoy this.”

The series of events and activities were organized by the collaboration of the NAACP, BSL, and NPHC who strived towards creating a unique experience, and celebrate Black History Month simultaneously.

“A lot of work was put in to bring this all together,” said Deandre Jones, junior sociology major, and president of NAACP.” “This will help improve unification campus wide, and possibly help show appreciation among different cultures.”

The idea was first introduced in the summer and attempted to improve the lack of student involvement.

“I’m happy to see this celebration, of not only the predominately black organizations here on campus, but for our ancestors, our past, and our future,” said Whitney Parks, senior nursing major, and president of NPHC. “By doing this we are proving we are more than just a group of individuals.”

The list of festivities includes engaging activities such as a unity cookout at 3 p.m. Monday on the VSU front lawn in which all students are invited to come and enjoy food, music, and games.

There will then be a “Black in America: Leadership and Advocacy” meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday in the Bailey Science Center Entry. This provides an opportunity for students to meet the organizations involved in the creation of the celebration week.

“Hopefully this will improve unity among African Americans, which is lacking,” said Jones.

VSU will then host a Shades of Beauty Fashion Show Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the University Center in the Magnolia Room. A guest speaker is planned to appear to discuss the importance of appearance and self confidence.

On Thursday the biggest event of the week is scheduled to go down in the Student Union Ballroom at 7 p.m. The VSU Black History Week Program will include entertainment and a guest speaker.

The Black History celebration winds down with a unity basketball tournament at 6 p.m. in the Student Recreation Center that includes prizes for the winning team.
R&B’s Café has invited VSU students to come enjoy great food and live entertainment at First Fridays in downtown Valdosta at 9 p.m. Friday night located at 132 North Patterson Street.

Students and faculty alike are encouraged to participate and get involved in these activities.

“It is important to remember those who paved the way, so this is definitely a well needed celebration for this Valdosta State campus,” Parks said.