Volume 5 Issue 1

Page 2 Cuisine tent. Creatively made items from the Chinese UNCP students of the International Program (who were enthusiastic sales people) were available, and the Phi Mu Alphas’ opportunity to pie one of their members in the face for donations was brilliant. Elisha Lawson, NCNW’s 2009 Mr. GQ Winner, stated with an impressed look on his face, “It is very interesting to see so many people coming together for such a worthy cause.” I agreed with him wholeheartedly. Chastity Schwarze, when asked about the meaning of the strategically placed bags with different names on their fronts and candles inside said she was more than happy to inform me that, “They are there to represent those who have survived a battle with cancer and [in memory of] those we have lost to cancer and that we will [never forget].” As I watched some volunteers continue their task of lining the relay path with more bags, Chastity continued, “We plan on lighting each candle just before 9pm [in our Luminaria ceremony] and it should be a [remarkable] sight.” Before night fall each team had the opportunity to display their banner of their chosen country and they did it proudly, as they did their laps around the track. Forty-five teams were in attendance, and up to the last tally done, the funds raised totaled $41,000. The American Cancer Society’s financial year is set for the end of August 2009, leaving plenty of time for the remaining teams to hand in their money and allow this figure to

grow. As the sunny day turned into a freezing night, determined volunteers stuck to their quest to keep walking. Since UNCP’s Relay For Life event is proudly organized by the students, Thomas Morrow, the UNCP host for the event, kept up the spirit and got the crowd to stamp away the cold with the help of music, such as the Cupid Shuffle and the Electric Slide. The end of the event gave volunteers a chance to share words of wisdom, a chance to speak of their loved ones that have already

past and to say thank you. Cancer has touched so many lives on this campus and George Gianera, a fellow UNCP student, recited a poem, “Why I Relay…” that he wrote in memory of his sister who lost to cancer last year. George, by his actions, shows us how important each day is and how making the right decisions can change your life for the better. In an interview with George, he stated, “Relay For Life has helped give me closure, to see and talk to people that went through the same things I have. It was like a bond we all had and it gives me hope that one day with the money we raise, we will discover a cure for cancer and people won’t have to go through what me and my family and everyone else at the Relay For Life has witnessed.” George mentioned seeing many people from different countries that have been affected by cancer and says joining was “…probably the easiest thing I have ever done.” He encourages

Relay the World Continued from Page 1

Why I Relay... By George Gianera

I Relay for people all around the world, For every single little boy and girl, For many friends that have lost their lives, All the brothers, sisters, husbands, and wives, I Relay for the people who are so filled with hope, That no matter what their boat will stay afloat, For those in pain but so filled with joy, Every day like Christmas and a brand new toy, I Relay because I used to take for granted, Life is precious and I did not understand it, But a reality check left me somewhat stranded, So I have decided to help single handed, Hand in hand I will fight the fight, Stand side by side with anyone in sight,

I Relay because in my heart it is right, The same reason I get down and pray every night, I Relay for life because it gives me pride, To Relay in honor of those who have died, For anyone else that has sat and cried, With family, friends, and that burning inside, I Relay because I'm thankful

for my life, I Relay for Brad and his beautiful late wife, I reiterate again I'm thankful to be alive, I may not win the fight but at least I tried, I Relay because life is so short, You should Relay to show your support, The sun rises and each night it will set, Every day is a fight so please don't forget,

About the ones who fight for every single breath, So I encourage you all to use the heart in your chest, Give a little it doesn't have to be much, With each gift a new life you will touch, Cause all the little bits really add up, All I'm asking for is a few coins in my cup, So don't say you care if you really don't, And don't say you'll help if you really won't. No need for lies there is no surprise, Look in my eyes I wear no disguise, I’m down for the cause I say what I mean, If you feel the same way then join on a team, Simply donate or volunteer your time, Both is great but either/or is fine, You do your part and I'll do mine, And Hopefully one day we all will shine!

My Beautiful sister, Jamie and her husband Brad

Thomas Morrow (above top) leading volunteers (above bottom) in dance

At the start of the Spring 2009 semester, Elena Lopez, an international Art student from Spain, created another one of her thought-provoking artworks. Unfortunately, this unique piece only stirred thoughts about the past amongst the faculty and students on campus. The metal sculpture piece started a debate regarding what is art and what is offensive. Some were angered by the slavery-south of the past perception, while others simply enjoyed and applauded the artistic and complex meaning of the sculpture. What about the sculpture could cause such a stir? Well, the view near the campus water feature depicts a large metal sheet with a human silhouette on both sides, hanging by a chain under a large tree. The first thought that comes to your mind decides which side of the coin you may fall on. Elena stated that she never expected such a response, as she wanted the sculpture to speak of the process of life, how people change in life and are still changing even after death. Elena expressed her love of working with materials that are opposites to each other. So, of course, for this project, she chose to work with metal and vinegar. This caused a chemical reaction when combined and exposed to the

natural elements, which caused rusting to occur. The vinegar solution was painted within the lines of the silhouette on one side of the metal sheet and outside the silhouette on the reverse side. Lopez mentioned her deliberate attempt to make the shape of the

silhouette unidentifiable, representing anyone. The project’s theme was created based on the fact that all life is created through some form of biological phenomena - which is mainly a chain reaction. After interviewing Elena Lopez, and hearing how well thought out and complex the

idea of the project was, I am sure if everyone tried to understand it, there would be no angry parties. After only planning on attending UNCP for the Fall 2008 semester, she fell in love with the school and extended her stay another semester to try a few things not offered to her in her school in Spain. She said, “I love all types of art. An artwork can be improved, therefore it is never finished.” Elena, when asked about the classes she took this semester, stated that she tried pottery and loves it. She said, “I can make what I want and see the change.” I watched Elena throughout the interview and saw how relaxed and familiar she was with equipment in the art building. She mentioned how at home she felt and how conducive to working all the various art rooms were in the building and how it makes being away from home not so hard to endure. Lopez divulged her excitement to move on and try new things, but says how grateful she was to her roommate and everyone on campus who made it easier to adjust, especially when she originally spoke no English.

Artwork Stirs Campus By Janelle Dann, Newsletter Coordinator

Page 3

Elena Lopez’s artwork that caused several debates on campus regarding its meaning.

Page 4 A Taste of iWorld 2009

Photographs by

Janelle Dann

On January 15, 2009, the tribute honoring Martin Luther King Jr.’s (MLK) birthday and his life’s work began with a brave silent walk through a slightly windy and cold night from the University Center to the Livermore Library. Holding candles and walking against the cold wind, walkers could be seen protecting their flame with their hands as best as possible. Fellow walkers could be seen coming to the assistance of others who had their lights extinguished, but they determined to complete the journey the same way they started.

It was almost poetic to have an event in true MLK style in a library. (it is supposed to be quiet there you know!); he loved breaking the rules for a good cause. Mr. Robert L. Canida, II Director of the Office of Multicultural and Minority Affairs, was responsible for the setting up of this event and reminded the gathering during his welcome that, “Martin Luther King Day is not a day off, but a day on.” Dr. Tom Corti, Assistant VC for Student Development started the greetings on behalf of the faculty and staff. Hannah Simpson, President of the SGA, was the first of the Council of Presidents to express their thoughts to a collection of both faculty and students gathered in the Library.

Stephen Love and guest performed

a song titled “Never Would Have Made It” in keeping with the theme of change and the direction of hope. The echoing of voices and the vibrations of the music had me looking for the librarian to show up and tell us all to be quiet. Jamel Porter, SGA Vice President, introduced Ms. Mary D. Williams, a gospel recording artist, as the keynote speaker for the event. She spoke to the crowd about using the spirituality of gospel music in life.

Throughout the event, Ms. Williams encouraged the audience to participate with their voices in song. She sang the words of “Oh Freedom” in a deeply melodious voice during her speech that carried the audience back to the past of slaves. Mary Williams spoke of the ordeal the slaves experienced and how

they craved for freedom. She educated the audience about how slaves used song to communicate and how majestic and powerful the act of humming was for them.

The brick walls of the library were graced with a special performance of a group of people of varying ages, class and skin color, raising their voices together with Mary Williams. Mary Williams had a unique speech style that grabbed and kept the audience’s attention as she presented a mixture of

inspiring words and soul-healing historical songs. What was the purpose of music back then? The purpose was a way of binding the slaves together. She described what slave music was as “…music that allows you to relive the burden, but [also] allows you to lift them away.”

Ms. Williams spoke of how the songs from the past are still applicable today. MLK could not do what he did alone, he had Mahalia Jackson (Queen of Gospel) to help give his vision a voice as Williams stated, “Without a vision you perish.” The song “On My Way to Freedom Land” was sung during the march back then, and it motivated the crowd to believe in the future. Williams inspired the audience saying, “What song keeps you motivated to fulfill your dreams? Don’t let anyone stand in your way as you try to achieve your dreams.”

She concluded her speech with a song performed by Mahalia Jackson and also requested by MLK when he was alive – “Lead Me On.” The performance was very soul lifting, as were the tears that could be seen in her eyes as she belted out each magnificent word.

A plaque to honor the memory of the late Dr. Collie Coleman, was given to his wife Ms. Anne Coleman, by emotionally teary eyed Robert Canida as he expressed his thanks to Dr. Coleman and others like him who did so much for everyone else. Admiration for Mary Williams’ knowledge and talent was seen in every face that came to greet her at the end of the event, as many present left the Library feeling thankful for being part of such an occasion.

A Tribute Fitting of MLK By Janelle Dann, Newsletter Coordinator

Page 5

The book discussion on February 24, 2009 was about Cornel West’s newest work titled Hope on a Tightrope: Words and Wisdom, as part of UNC Pembroke’s 2nd African American Read-in a Literacy Campaign. The panel was led by UNCP’s own Dr. Scott Hicks. Faculty, students, and guests discussed the change and how delicate and important hope is to black people today. Dr. Hicks shared how he loved the author for his work and the eclectic range of people that inspired his work. The intimate faculty lounge seemed to

envelope the idea of the discussion. The recognition of Barack Obama as President is a significant change in the history of America, especially now that the country

is seen as one people and not just blacks and whites.

Some of the main points discussed were: the courage that the American people had in demanding change, the importance of the teaching of the country’s history, and hope in ensuring change begins with family from the home, and the introduction of new leadership that concentrates on serving all Americans and doing what is best for the people. One of the questions asked was, how do we break free from the

class stereotypes that were based on our history?

Cornel West says the fact that the United States’ 44th president is a black American shows significant change and an increase in the possibility of people’s hopes and dreams becoming a reality. On page 59 of his book, West states, “now that the dream has been realized, we see how narrow that dream was.” This sparked a discussion as to whose dream was considered narrow. The older generation should be able to communicate with the next generation regarding their cultural heritage and history. Informing family members of the lineage they come from helps to instill a sense of strength and pride. This will help to build a foundation for the child’s life and character.

When Dr. Frankie Denise Powell brought up the statement on page 61 regarding talking to older people, it made the entire group nod and share their agreement on the topic. I always loved hearing stories about the past from my great-grandmother while she was alive, and it helped me to understand her and appreciate what I have achieved now. I learned how lucky I was to have knowledge of the past from

those who lived it. My elders are as important to me as I am to them. I realized how detrimental to society the severing of connection between the generations can be. Petrina

“Trin-A-Thoughtz” Bryant, a guest on the panel, asked the group to listen to a new song by India Arie titled, “Great Grandmother,” as it speaks about getting young people to talk to older generations.

Cornel West mentioned how each citizen’s courage in voting their hearts and conscience was remarkable despite the American tradition regarding its selection of a suitable President. Their vote showed how much change was needed and the fact that change was identified within the character of Barack Obama. His love for people of all walks of life and his ability to make decisions that are hard, but necessary in the long run, shows his leadership potential.

I liked the sharing of ideas. Everyone was open-minded and eager to listen to thoughts and ideas of others no matter who they were. As one of the guests stated, “He can’t mess up! It took us 43 presidents to get here.” The panel and guests reacted negatively to the entire country placing all their hopes and dreams on one man’s actions. They were scared that the American people

Hope on a Tightrope? By Janelle Dann, Newsletter Coordinator

Page 6

“He can’t mess up! It took us 43

Presidents to get here.”

Continued on Page 7

[Verse 1:] I wish there was a video game to teach you your ancestor’s name I wish there was a phone number like 1-800-Save-Your-Brother I'm thankful for the radio station Not afraid to put the truth in rotation there are skirts of information That you can only get in conversation with…

[Chorus:] Young People, who talk to Old People, it would make us Better People, all around...(Yes it would) And if Old People would talk to Young People, it would make us Better People, all around....(Yes it would)

[Verse 2:] We went from radio to TV Now we're going from LP to CD Don't be afraid To try something new I can help you with the brand new technology Help me with the age old philosophy Together there's so much we can do with:

[Chorus:]

They say that every Generation gets worse Whether if your generous or no purse These problems tend to strive off the sky (yeah) Listen to Mahama Ghandi's words Be the change you want to see in the world

Page 7

“Great Grandmother” by India Arie

are not taking the responsibility of change into their own hands. If Obama makes a decision that doesn’t go correctly, the nay-sayers may turn a positive opportunity into a negative fiasco. To change the mood, the discussion ended with a phenomenal recitation of Trin-A-Thoughtz’s poem titled “The Village.” The passion was not missing even though she suffered from a sore throat as she delivered the words with intended vigor.

Hope on a Tightrope? Continued from Page 6

Start with yourself and healing will multiply AAAAAAH, that's what happens When..

[Chorus:]

If black people Would talk to white people It would make us Better People All Around.... If Republican people would Talk to Democratic people It would make us diplomatic people [laugh] All Around.....

Petrina “Trin-A-Thoughtz” Bryant

Office of Multicultural & Minority Affairs

PO Box 1510

Pembroke, NC 28372

Location: Old Main, Room 132

oma@uncp.edu

910.522.6508

910.521.6742 (Fax)

Contact Us

Mission Statement

The Office of Multicultural and Minority Affairs of UNC Pembroke strives to provide programs and services that support the academic mission of the University by enhancing the educational, personal, cultural and social development of diverse and ethnic minority student populations.

As an agent of change, the Office of Multicultural and Minority Affairs seeks to value cultural diversity in order to promote an empowered society.

Diversity Committee

Ms. Mary Thomas Locklear

Dr. Shilpa Pai Regan

Dr. Kevin Freeman

Mr. Virgil Oxendine

Dr. David Oxendine

Ms. Nicolette Campos

Mr. Robert L. Canida, II, Chair

Page 8

Robert L. Canida, II

Director, OMMA

canida@uncp.edu

Lisa Gonzalez Bullard, Administrative Support Associate

lisa.bullard@uncp.edu

See Upcoming Events:

• Visit the OMMA Website at

www.uncp.edu/oma

Janelle Dann

Editor in Chief &

Newsletter Coordinator