Multicultural Student Council, MSC, has got a lot of soul. On Thursday, Feb. 6, MSC hosted their annual Soul Food Dinner in honor of Black History Month.
The evening began at 7 p.m. with an introduction by Andrea Meads, MSC President. Dinner was served to over 100 FSC students, faculty and guests. The meal included soul food staples, such as fried chicken, green beans and macaroni and cheese. The meal concluded with some peach cobbler and strawberry shortcake.
During dinner, Ersula Knox Odom, writer of the book “At Sula’s Feet,” spoke. She began her speech in a portrayal of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. Bethune was the founder of Bethune-Cookman University and was a leader in getting equality for blacks in the U.S.
As Bethune, she told us her story. She was the 15th child of 17 and was the daughter of two former slaves. At a young age she was not only told that she could not read, but that she should not. From then on she made it her mission to help everyone who crossed her path learn to read and write.
She said that although what she was doing might have been frowned upon in society, people should always remember, that “when you are working toward what you know is right, you become fearless.”
Bethune had the opportunity to interact with five U.S. Presidents. However, her relationship with President Franklin D. Roosevelt and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt was the one she cherished the most.
“It’s not about separation. It’s about [being able to] speak for yourself,” Odom, as Bethune, said.
Odom ended the night with saying, “you have entered to learn, and you must exit to serve.”
“It was a really informative evening that included a wonderful speaker, great company and amazing food,” Jennifer Gray, MSC member, said.
There will be two more events hosted by MSC for Black History Month. The next event is entitled “I am not my hair” hair show and it will be held in the Thrift Alumni Building at 7 p.m. on Feb. 15.
