The Black Cultural Showcase at San Jose State University

By Essence Sellers

San Jose, CA- On February 27, 2015, was the 1st annual Black History Month Cultural

Showcase at San Jose State University in the new Student Union Theater. The newly opened

Theater was decorated with black, green, and red in symbolizing the Liberation flag colors.

Student leaders collaborated with student organizations, faculty, staff, and community leaders to

showcase Black and African culture through food, music, dance, and culture. Did I mention this

was a free event? Food was catered by “Back A Yard Jamaican/Caribbean Restaurant”, which

included jerk chicken, beans & rice, plantain, and mac n cheese. As well as “Jon Jon’s BBQ”,

this served ribs and tri-tip.

The keynote speaker was Rasheed Shabazz, a Communications Director for the Afrikan Black

Coalition, which is a statewide organization of Black students in California and UC Berkeley

alumni. Currently, he is an editor of the Afrikan Black Coalition’s news publication, The ABC

Movement. Following the speaker, Eritrean Student Association and Ethiopian Student

Association graced the stage with a cultural dance performance. Black Student Union President,

Alexander Donald, also performed a few songs.

This event had all the elements of Black and African culture. It was well-rounded and brought a

community together. The keynote speaker connected historical events to present events and

brought to light issues that we as a community need to be aware of and to promote change, but it

starts within each of us. It was a beautiful showcase to celebrate the end of Black History Month

on our campus. It was an empowering experience overall.