By KATE PIERCE
News Editor
Aiming to express unity and solidarity in striving for societal equality and justice Spectrum, the ALANA (African, Latino, Asian, and Native American) student union is hosting a “Black Solidarity Day” in memory of Martin Luther King Jr,
“Spectrum plans to have a timely discussion with the student body about the inequalities and injustices that are faced in our communities and our lives and discuss ways to bridge that gap to become a more united group of individuals,” said Alquan Higgs, vice president of the student union.
In addition to the discussion and various activities and presentations, members of Spectrum are requesting students and faculty to wear all black clothing as a symbol of solidarity and unity for the occasion. The event kicks off at 8 p.m. on Tuesday January 17th in Standish A/B.
“It’s the first day back and it’s an opportunity for us to not only show respect for an amazing leader, but a chance to be united, a chance to to gain knowledge, and an opportunity to get involved,” said Alyssa Powell, the public relations officer for the student union.
The entire campus community is invited to attend the event. The name “Black Solidarity Day” was chosen to honor the historical and cultural significance of what the day stands for, but the student union hopes that students, faculty, and community members from all races and backgrounds are inspired to attend in order to provide their own unique input.
“I think remembering the work of Martin Luther King Jr. is more important than ever right now, not just on this campus but for our larger national community,” said Powell. “With everything that has happened this past year with social injustices and politics, it’s obvious we still have some work to do. I think keeping in mind his messages, which go way beyond just race, is a place to start and a way we can improve.”
To Higgs, Martin Luther King Jr. Day means hope – hope for a brighter future with respect among all people with the teachings of King never being forgotten and his memory continuing to live on.
“Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy continues to be a catalyst for change and hope not only in America but throughout the entire world,” said Higgs. “His dedication and passion for the equality for all people continues to inspire me and many others to be advocates and leaders in the fight for change and equality. His legacy will live on to give hope and faith and reassurance in a better tomorrow. This day celebrates and remembers a remarkable man, who changed the entire framework of this nation.”
The federal holiday honoring King’s birthday began shortly after his assassination in 1968, but was first observed in 1986 after President Ronald Reagan signed the holiday into law three years prior. The first year the holiday was observed in all 50 states was in 2000.
“When I think about Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream for our country – having a multiracial nation that is united, and there’s equality, social justice, and peace it kind of reminds me of Spectrum’s mission,” said Powell.
“We are here to promote diversity on the Saint Rose Campus, we are the multicultural group and we want to improve our school,” she said. “So for me Martin Luther King Jr. Day is another opportunity to not just honor him but a reminder of the values he wanted to instill in our nation, it’s a chance for me to reflect and emphasize Dr. King’s messages.”
Looking forward to February, Spectrum is planning several events in observance of Black History Month. Next month will host the student union’s annual Black Expo, in which African American culture is celebrated with a month long series of events and discussions.
The Black Expo begins with the annual gospel night, followed by an open-mic/art appreciation night and ending with a highly anticipated fashion show. The weekly meetings at 8 p.m. on Tuesdays during the month will also be filled with activities and discussion geared toward the celebration of African American culture.
For more information about these events or Spectrum, the ALANA student union, check out their Facebook page or email club president Lee-Mon Ryan or Higgs respectively at ryanl745@strose.edu or higgsa407@strose.edu
