Office of University Communications 

Missouri State Celebrates African American history

SPRINGFIELD — Missouri State University’s office of multicultural student services is presenting a month-long celebration of African American history. A variety of informational events and speakers will be presented throughout Febuary and March recognizing the history and culture of the African American community. The month will be centered around the theme, “Democracy and Freedom.”

“From musical concerts to theatrical performances, lectures and panel discussions these activities touch upon every aspect of life and culture,” says Alison Hahn of the office of multicultural student services. “Especially the ways in which black history and culture influence the global community.”

Scheduled events include:

Feb. 13
The music department will present “This Little Light of Mine”: Faculty Recital featuring Dr. Richard Todd Payne at 7:30 p.m. in Ellis Recital Hall.

Feb. 14
The department of sociology, anthropology and criminology will present Dr. Timothy Baumann: “From Slavery to Freedom in Missouri’s Little Dixie:  An Archaeological Perspective” at 7 p.m. in Strong Hall, Room 3.

Feb. 20
Student Activities Council will present Daryl Davis: “Klan-Destine Relationships” at 7 p.m. in Plaster Student Union Theater. Davis, author and historian, delves into the torrid history of America’s most infamous secret society.

Feb. 22
The office of multicultural student services will present a Panel Discussion: “The ‘N’ Word” at 7 p.m. in Plaster Student Union Theater. Missouri State faculty, staff, and students will discuss racism and the words that polarize and shock a nation.

Feb. 24
The NAACP will present a Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration at 5:30 p.m. at the Deliverance Temple, 2101 W. Chestnut Expressway.

Feb. 28
Student Activities Council will present J.L. King at 7 p.m. in Plaster Student Union Theater. King, author of best-seller “On the Down Low,” will tackle sexuality, self-acceptance and healthy living.

March 4
Missouri State University Gospel Choir will present a Gospel Extravaganza at 3 p.m. in Plaster Student Union Theater. The Gospel Choir, joined by local and regional performers, celebrate the power of the spiritual and the hymn.

March 9-11
Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts will present I Can’t Stop Loving You at 8 p.m. March 9, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. March 10 and 2 p.m. March 11. Tickets range from $19-39 and can be purchased by calling the Missouri State TIX box office at 836-7678, or (toll free) 1-888-476-7849. For more information, contact Deb Gallion, director of marketing and promotions, at 836-6767.

Free parking for events is available in lots #13, #14 and #29 located at the corner of National Ave. and Monroe Street. All events are free and open to the public. For more information, contact Alison Hahn, administrative secretary in the office of multicultural student services, at 836-6618.