Spring Break
ASO entertains and educates at Cultural Explosion
Lakeisha Goodman
Issue date: 12/4/08 Section: Features
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The event was opened with a poem, written and read by ECU student and ASO vice president Jennifer Nnamani, titled "Africa's Silent Plea." 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 performed, receiving cheers and screams of approval from the student audience.
Although not traditional African dance, the program included performances by the Black Student Union's Nubiance dance team and Black Fire step team --a welcomed contribution to 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 (DRC), then took the stage after a brief intermission to provide information on current issues in the DRC.
"There is a deadly war going on in Congo where too many are dying," said Tresor.
Though Congo is a country of possible wealth and 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 from Africa and the United States.
For next semester, the ASO already 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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