UNITED WE STAND...

"United We Stand" was the theme UW-L's  Black Student Unity group chose for its 2018 Reflections of Ebony. You've heard me praise this cultural evening in years past* as it is truly one of my most favorite campus events.  I breathed a big sigh of relief once the day's snowfall ended mid afternoon and we had no problem leaving the End of the Rainbow Valley!

Reflections of Ebony ticket sales had been slow at the beginning of the month but folks apparently were just waiting to purchase their tickets as the numerous set tables attested upon entering the Student Union's large Bluffs ballroom. Arriving when the doors opened was a good thing as we had our choice of tables closer to the stage and enabled time for me to give Natureman his first tour of the new impressive Union. 

Welcoming the evening's guests were Jalen Tomell, a very talented young musician followed by the BSU event coordinators giving a welcome to the 200+ attendees.  


The Black National anthem was sung by former student Jazzma Holland, along with thank you's and short explanations of the African flag's colors and 'Soul' Food after which tables were dismissed to the much anticipated Soul Food buffet. 

During the evening awards and recognition were given to graduating seniors, students, faculty and community members. The truth is this organization couldn't happen without BSU's dedicated board's hard work and the help of its members.

Most of BSU's board 

The evening program is different every year but a performance artist Muhibb Dyer, a community activist from Milwaukee's southside, brought his one man show “From Kings to Thugs to Presidents” with the aid of video clips of interpretive dance and photos. His impassioned voice was heard well before we saw him rising out of a 'real' casket on stage. Talk about an entrance.  

An hour of moving poetic lyrics spoke of the African American experience dedicated to one of Mr Dyer's young family members who had followed the common path of too many young black men, dying way too young.

Muhibb Dyer also incorporated the powerful Call AND RESPONSE method where a phrase is reiterated with the help of the audience repeating it numerous times. 

As witnesses it was painful listening to truths like discrimination, incarceration, murder and yet also hopeful with words for the future. 

May Muhibb Dyer's words continue to reach both young and old alike for us to stand united and make this world a better place for all.

Thank BSU for the work you do in both the university and city communities!

* LINKS to previous Reflections of Ebony 

BEST SECRET IN TOWN

2014 Reflections of Ebony

FINDING IT AND SEXY SELF INSIDE..