African drummers performed in the Student Center for the Black History Month Kickoff event and the reaction of the audience was unexpected.

The Black History Month Planning Committee, made up of students, faculty and staff, hosted the event on February 3.

Miya A. Walker, Director of College Relations, Public Affairs & Governmental Relations expressed, “We were blown away by the audience’s response to the drummers…It was a lot of fun.”

The crowd was comprised of students who were cheering for the drummers and performers.

A group of students went on stage and were taught African dancing techniques.

Daniel Gonzales, kinesiology major stated, “I heard the music and it attracted me. The music is very energetic, I like it, I like drums and I like what they are playing.

“Learning about different cultures is a must for a person to be culturally diverse. It is important to know different backgrounds without having to judge other people and how they live their life.“ he continued.

Walker stated, “Diversity is a key value here at Cerritos College. We have heard a lot of great feedback from students who said they enjoyed the chance to learn about a culture outside of their own.

“For the campus, it is important to show that no matter your background, when you share culture in an inclusive and meaningful way, people are generally receptive and happy to participate.”

She continued, “As with the theme for black history month, “Each One Teach One” the goal of the planning committee was to create engaging and inclusive events that give more insight into African American culture and to celebrate those aspects with the whole campus.”

According to the Smithsonian, Carter G. Woodson initially created black history week in Washington DC in February 1926, “to ensure that school children be exposed to black history. Woodson chose the second week of February in order to celebrate the birthday of Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.”

There will be more events throughout the month
that students, faculty and staff are welcome to attend that relate to black history month.