East Carolinian

Issue date: 12/2/08 Section: News

Media Credit: staff photo

Last week in Hendrix Theatre, the African Student Association aimed to enlighten ECU students about African culture and current events. The "Cultural Explosion" started at 7 p.m. and was filled with dancing, modeling, skits and a special guest speaker.

The event started with a poem, written and read by ECU student and ASO vice president Jennifer Nnamani, titled "Africa's Silent Plea." Nnamani said that her inspiration to write the poem came from reflections of the plight of many African nations.

"I think of Africa and how the resources are being taken away," said Nnamani.

Next was Moto Makasi, the women's ASO dance team, followed by the men's ASO dance team, Sukosa who also did a number, receiving cheers and screams of approval from almost all of the females in the student audience.

Included in the program were Black Student Union's Nubiance dance team and Black Fire Step team. Even though these teams are not traditional African dance, they were welcomed at the event.

"The dance and step team are examples of how African culture inspires other cultures," Nnamani said.

Guest speaker Tresor, from the Democratic Republic of Congo, then took the stage after a brief intermission to inform the audience about some of the serious issues going on in Congo.

"There is a deadly war going on in Congo where too many are dying," said Tresor.

Though Congo is a country of possible wealth, they have been recovering from years of decline, according to Tresor.

"People are dying every day because others want our resources, like oil and cobalt, to be used in things that we probably won't ever use," Tresor said.

The "Cultural Explosion" ended on a lighter note with a fashion show. The ASO members strutted across the stage wearing some of the latest fashion trends, both African and American.

Next semester ASO has several events planned, including Africa Night in April. There will be skits, a fashion show, music and an after party.

For more information on the ASO, their events or to join the organization, contact the ASO secretary Judy Nganga via email at jnn0629@ecu.edu



This writer can be contacted at features@theeastcarolinian.com.

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