Ladies Against Social Stigmas, Baobab Society Win Grant

02/11/2019

Ladies Against Social Stigmas (LASS) and The Baobab Society were the winners of Student Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives dollars which supports and promotes the celebration, academic achievement, social development, civic engagement and retention of students from historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups at ESF.

In cooperation with the Office of Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (OIDE), the joint proposal was vetted among leadership of student organizations that have historically benefitted from funding from the now-closed Student Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives Office. The winning proposal received $800 to support the annual Spirit and Essence event.

Since the beginning of time, humans have used art as a form of expression. The purpose of the Spirit and Essence showcase is to bring to light the works of the black community which reflect resilience, cultural values, strength and the stories of inspiring individuals. Through this event, the beauty and empowerment of the black community throughout history is honored. The event also highlights the importance of having a diverse and inclusive community at ESF.

Come celebrate the arts of the black community with The Baobab Society and LASS Feb. 16 at 5 p.m. at Gateway center.

February is Black History Month. Its roots rest in Negro History Week, an initiative of Dr. Carter G. Woodson. In 1915, Woodson established the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (now called the Association for the Study of African American Life and History). In 1926, he launched Negro History Week to bring national attention to the contributions of black people to American history. Woodson chose the second week of February for Negro History Week because it marks the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. The celebration is still sponsored by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. In 1976, the Association expanded the celebration from one week to a month-long celebration.