UM-Flint Africa Week 2019
February 4-10
The Department of African Studies, along with efforts by the UM-Flint African Student Association, and generous support from the College of Arts & Sciences, the Office of the Provost and other University offices, presents the Fourth Annual Africa Week.
Celebrations and activities will explore the vibrant ties that exist between Africa and its diaspora. Events include a movie outing, poetry slam, intersectional discussions, an open mic night, and visits to the Motown Museum and Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit. Unless otherwise noted, Africa Week events are free and open to the public.
Visit umflint.edu/africana/africa-week
Flint Institute of Arts 4th Annual African American Film Series:” Love Jacked”
February 14, 5:30-9:30pm
This is the final film presentation in the African American Film Series. Enjoy live music, food, the art galleries will be open and we will finish with a great film followed by a great love game! Suggested Donation $5 or more.
Visit flintarts.org/events/films
The Whiting “We Shall Overcome”
February 17, 3pm
Inspired by the words and action of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “We Shall Overcome” showcases repertoire from across the African American music traditions that electrified generations of civil rights activists and defenders with interwoven spoken word from Dr. King’s recorded speeches. This production ties together a living lineage of music and culture that includes traditional gospel, modern gospel, classical, jazz, Broadway and spirituals. From Aretha Franklin, to Wynton Marsalis; Duke Ellington to Stevie Wonder; Nina Simone to Donny Hathaway; and traditional spirituals and music from “The Wiz.” Damien’s unique understanding of each genre allows him to fluidly cover so much musical ground in a single performance.
“Freedom Bound”
February 26, 7pm
There is a story connected with the Underground Railroad in countless communities throughout the north. Old houses have secret tunnels leading into the woods or attics with hidden stairways. The “Railroad” was a network of friends who helped slaves escape to freedom in the north and on to Canada before the Civil War. This turbulent period of history is the subject of “Freedom Bound,” a one-act play with music by Mad River Theater Works. Freedom Bound revolves around the most famous incident in the history of the Underground Railroad in Ohio: The story of Addison White, and escaped slave, and his rescue by the citizens of the town of Mechanicsburg, Ohio. Freedom Bound brings history to life through original songs and an array of characters that pop right out of the past to relive the turbulence and hope of the Underground Railroad right before your eyes. Age Appropriateness: 3rd Grade and up; includes Q&A session.
Visit thewhiting.com
