To Be Black in America…and at NEIU

The Black Heritage Committee sponsored “To Be Black in America…and at NEIU” in the Student Union, on Wednesday, Oct. 5. The event was moderated by Dr. Jackie Anderson, assistant professor of the social work department. The panel consisted of NEIU students; Frank Trigg, Selena Thomas, Roger Byrd and Regina Turner. The event allowed for each student to tell about their experiences with being a member of the African Diaspora in relation to being a student on a campus like NEIU. They also shared some personal stories and experiences of their own as well as societal, global and local topics from an Afrocentric perspective. Byrd discussed his experiences being raised as one of seven in an inadequate family structure on the Southside of Chicago, while struggling to make sense of his own future. He explained his “quicksand mentally” which made him feel like he was stuck as a prisoner of his environment. He shared how getting involved in the debate team at his high school allowed him to get out of his negative bubble. In regards to some of the audience’s questions and comments, he asked, “How important is it to be transparent? If I can help one person, then is it worth exposing myself?” Byrd is a double major in environmental studies and political science and also serves as the Student Building Manager of the student union, as well as the founder of the Student Union’s LOL series. He added, “I want to break the stereotype that Black people cannot think outside of the box. Lead by example, make an example and set an example.” Other themes discussed among the panelists were unity among Black communities, Black youth, breaking down stereotypes, being Black in the social and political arenas and Black shifting and consciousness. After the panelist presentation and question and answer session, the audience was allowed to engage the panelist with their own comments and questions. Following the event, the student panelists were featured in a film presentation. An audience member excitedly said, “That was such an eye-opening and informative experience. I hope to go to more events such as this.”