​Rowan College of South Jersey celebrates African American culture with music, poetry, and more at second annual event.

Rowan College of South Jersey's (RCSJ) Student Life Office is hosting its second annual Celebrating Black Culture & Community event on Friday, Feb. 27. This African American History Month program is titled “A Walk Down History Lane" and is free to the public.

This special event begins at 7 p.m. in the Guaracini Center.

The intention of the program is to enlighten community members about the countless contributions Americans of African ancestry have given to the United States and the world. 

“This event is about shedding the light on the positive things African culture has brought to America," said Shania Santiago, senior supervisor of Student Life and Alumni Relations, RCSJ. “[C]elebrating different cultures at RCSJ is important because the student body represents every culture."

The Celebrating Black Culture & Community event will consist of a Hip Hop performance, poetry readings, songs, a recitation of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s “I Have a Dream" speech, and more. 

Attendees will also get a chance to support the RCSJ's Student Life by purchasing items such as tote bags, notebooks, and bracelets that have inspirational quotes about Americans of African ancestry on them. 

“And don't forget, most of all, the desserts – sweet potato pie and banana bread," Santiago said, with a smile. 

RCSJ values the contributions of different cultures and continues to create a space where people of all ethnicities, religions, and creeds feel welcomed and heard. 

“I want us [as a community] to come together and … feel uplifted and learn something new about African American history," Santiago said.

“I want them to feel good. I want them walking out [of the event] saying, 'that was interesting and I'm glad I learned that.' Or 'that performance was off the hook.'" 

For information about the Celebrating Black Culture & Community: A Walk Down History Lane program, contact Shania Santiago at [email protected] or 856-200-4815. For information about Rowan College of South Jersey's Student Life programs, visit RCSJ.edu/StudentLife.