William Paterson University Observes African Heritage Month in February Music, film, and dance support the theme “Watu wema… ardhi nzuri… urithi mzuri" (Beautiful People, Beautiful Land, Beautiful Heritage in Swahili) for William Paterson University’s annual observance of African Heritage Month in February. Most events are free and open to the public. Events scheduled include: Thursday, February 2 Opening ceremony, 12:30 to 2:00 p.m., University Commons, Multipurpose Room An African drum band will perform and demonstrate some dance steps. Traditional African food will be served. Tuesday, February 7 Soul Sister, an open mic night, 6:00 to 10:00 p.m., University Commons,Center Cafe This open mic night is dedicated to the women of the University community. Participants are invited to sing, rap, read poetry, or otherwise perform on the stage. Wednesday, February 8 Movie Night, 7:00 to 10:00 p.m., University Commons Ballroom The film The Help, about a group of African American women, based on the best-selling book, will be screened. Refreshments will be served. Thursday, February 9 NPHC Step Exhibition, 8:00 p.m. to midnight, University Commons Ballrooms A, B, C A mini step show where the National Pan-Hellenic Council Greeks will demonstrate dance steps. Admission: $3 for students; $5 general admission. Tuesday, February 14 "Health and Beauty Expo: My Black is Beautiful," 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., University Commons Ballroom A A health and beauty expo dedicated specifically to the needs of the African American community. Includes stations with information on specific health topics that affect the community, as well as health vendors who will be both selling and donating products to students. Thursday, February 16 "Go Down Moses," 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., University Commons, Multipurpose Room This is an interactive gospel media program, designed for audience participation. Sunday, February 26 Herstory, 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., University Commons 211 This multimedia program is dedicated to celebrating the lives of strong African American women in the media, politics, and the corporate world who are role models: who they are, where they came from, and how they got to be where they are today. Refreshments will be served. Wednesday, February 29 Umoja Dinner, 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., University Commons Ballrooms B and C. Awards, speeches and performances will honor several members of the campus community. William Paterson University’s African Heritage Celebration is sponsored by the Student Government Association, the African Heritage Celebration Committee, SABLE, Student Activities Programming Board, Office of Educational Enrichment, National Pan-Hellenic Council, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. For additional information, please contact Victoria Colman, coordinator of night and weekend programming, at 973-720-3564. # # # 01/19/12
