One event that I am looking forward to this semester is the On Black Joy: An Unconference on February 15th at 10:45am and February 19th at 7pm. This event will highlight the concept of joy and its different facets from the African American perspective, as well as shed understanding on how everyone has access to joy. This two-day event is a part of the Indiana Remixed Series that highlights the untold or underrepresented stories and lives that are a part of the history of Indiana and IU’s campus. On Black Joy, will feature many voices from IU faculty as well as some invited guests. On the first day of the conference, professors Maria Abegunde, Ph. D., Ross Gay, Ph. D., and Joel Wong, Ph. D. will ensue a very interesting discussion on being, joy, gratitude and their connections. On the second day, artists LaShawnda Crowe Storm, Mariah Ivey, and Baba Stafford will be having a great conversation on art, activism and wellness.
I am very excited for this event because it focuses on a specific aspect of black culture: joy. Many times, reflections during Black History Month is geared toward the plight or struggle of African Americans. Though it is important to continue to speak on issues and advocate for change in our cities, it should also be known that black people and culture are more than the struggle. Emphasizing the joy in black culture shows the different dimensions of the community I am apart of and the strength the has carried us throughout history.
In addition to this, this conference also gives practical tools to everyone in attendance to achieve joy in their everyday lives. This will be done through discussion, but also through experiential art activities. All in all, IU Faculty and students will be speaking on panels about topics regarding mindfulness, the impact of gratitude, and understanding the importance of art practices in experiencing joy.
I think this conference is unique and it will consist of days filled with fun, relaxation, and learning all at the same time, making it impactful in many ways.
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