Date: Jan 27, 2009

Hofstra University Celebrates Black History Month

An Art Exhibit, a Multicultural film, Reflections of the 2009 National Black Student Leadership Development Conference, A Discussion of the "N" Word

Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY – Hofstra University will celebrate Black History Month in February with various activities including Out of Africa: Works From The Hofstra University Museum Collection;, a viewing of the film “The Great Debaters”, Reflections on Leadership including the reflections of students who attended the 2009 National Black Student Leadership Development Conference; and a discussion program titled “The N Word – Should it Ever be Used Again by Anyone?”

The “Out of Africa” art exhibition, on view January 12 through March 15, 2009 in the Hofstra University Museum’s David Filderman Gallery, Joan and Donald E. Axinn Library, Ninth Floor, South Campus, divides into three thematic sections and showcases 26 works produced from the late 19th to 20th centuries. Artifacts include headdresses, weapons, tools and figurative sculptures from nine countries located in western and central Africa, including Cote d’Ivoire and the Democratic Republic of Congo. All pieces give expression to a number of Sub-Saharan cultures and enable visitors to appreciate their aesthetic value in relation to their original functions.

“This exhibition provides an opportunity to spotlight the Hofstra University Museum’s rich collection of African art,” said Director of the Hofstra University Museum Beth E. Levinthal. “Audiences can take a closer look at the meaning and significance of the art while gaining a greater application for its aesthetic impact. Viewers also discover the rich cultural traditions that continue to influence art of the present-day.”

The Office of Multicultural and International Student Programs will present the Denzel Washington film, “The Great Debaters” on Thursday, February 26,  2009 at 6 – 8:30 p.m. in the Mack Student Center Theater, North Campus. A discussion of the film will follow.

On Friday, February 6, 2009 at 2:30 p.m., students will have the opportunity to listen to and reflect on the experiences of their peers who attended the 2009 National Black and Student Leadership Development Conference in Washington, D.C.

Finally, students will discuss and voice their concerns on a sensitive subject in a discussion series titled, “The N-Word: Should it Ever be Used Again by Anyone?” The program will be held on Friday, February 13, 2009 at 2-4 p.m. and will allow students to discuss freely their opinions on the topic.

"Black History is American History. This month is a dynamic opportunity for Hofstra students and University community members to expand and deepen their knowledge of the African Diaspora,” said Assistant Director of Multicultural and International Student Programs Pamela Phayme. “The Black History Month program calendar features a wide variety of programs exploring elements of African, African-American, and Caribbean culture; there’s truly something for everyone!"

For more information on Hofstra University’s celebrations marking Black History Month please visit our Web site at www.hofstra.edu .

Hofstra University is a dynamic private institution where students can choose from more than 145 undergraduate and more than 160 graduate programs in liberal arts and sciences, business; engineering; communication; education, health and human services;  and honors studies, as well as a School of Law. The Hofstra community is driven, dynamic and energetic, helping students find and focus their strengths to prepare them for a successful future.