Courtesy of Toyota
Florida A&M University hosts its first State of the Black Student Summit in five years Thursday.
This combined panel discussion and concert is inspired and sponsored in part by the Kinsey Collection, “a national touring exhibit of authentic and rare art, artifacts, books, documents and manuscripts that tell the often untold story of African American achievement and contribution.”
The summit is being held to educate students on current social issues while empowering them to make the change they want to see.
Topics being discussed include mass incarceration in the Black community, the closing of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and police brutality. How Black students can be part of and, if still possible, attain ‘the American dream’ will also be considered.
Panelists are comprised of former student leadership members, government officials and progressive Black film stars.
Attendees can expect political activism and art to come together during the show with performances by recording artist Mal Forte and FAMU student poets.
Kinsey Collection and Toyota campus ambassador and summit coordinator Nadia Felder said the panelists will not only address the issues students face, but also brainstorm ways to solve them.
“We want students to leave the summit empowered, mentally stimulated and more knowledgeable,” Felder said.
Participants will have the opportunity to interact with panelists and register to vote during intermission.
Third-year biology student from Orlando Brianna Lowe believes the event is exactly what students need during a time of uncertainty.
“This event is very necessary. I look forward to being informed and brainstorming ways to create a solution with my peers. Registering students to vote is such a bright idea because every vote will be needed during this upcoming election,” Lowe said.
The Black Student Summit is being held Thursday, March 24 at 6:30 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom.
Use the hashtag #FAMUBSS16 for updates and to be part of the conversation.