Black History Month Keynote To Speak About Political Empowerment

February 12, 2015

Rashad Robinson

On Tuesday, Feb. 17, Rashad Robinson, executive director of Color of Change, will be the keynote speaker at Old Dominion University's signature Black History Month event, entitled "Changing the Color of Democracy." The address is one of several events planned at Old Dominion University throughout Black History Month.

The address, hosted by ODU's Office of Intercultural Relations, is free and open to the public. It begins at 7 p.m. in the North Café of Webb Center.

Robinson is a dynamic speaker and visionary, and for the past five years, has been selected as one of the "Root 100," a list of emerging and influential African Americans under 45. He has previously held leadership roles at GLAAD, the Right to Vote Campaign, and FairVote. Under his leadership, Color of Change has furthered its goal of strengthening the political voice of African Americans.

The organization's message, however, is one of inclusiveness. Color of Change urges its nationwide network to speak in unison, about issues that unite Americans, not divide them. It seeks to do everything it can to make sure all Americans are represented, served and protected - regardless of race or class.

Rashad Robinson has appeared in hundreds of news stories, interviews, and political discussions through outlets such as ABC, BET, CNN, MSNBC, OWN, The New York Times, Fast Company, and NPR. He has also received the ADCOLOR Advocate Award, the Transforming America Award from Demos, and the Bayard Rustin Citizen Change Award from Americans for Democratic Action.

Some other highlighted events for Black History Month at Old Dominion University include:

• Black Cinema Night, Thursday, Feb. 19. Intercultural Center, 2114 Webb Center

Anight of cinema and refreshments dedicated to exploring representation of African American Culture in film. After viewing the film, an opportunity will be provided for open dialogue with friends and peers. Sponsored by the Black Movement Council and Office of Intercultural Relations.

• Black Currency Day, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 12:30-1:30 p.m. North Mall, Webb Center

Part of Black History Month is the very current history. The ODU community is invited to celebrate and contemplate the contemporary experience of African Americans in society. Events include interactive discussions, a trivia contest, poetry, an art project and more. Sponsored by students of African and African American Studies and the National Pan Hellenic Council.

• Black Business Expo, Thursday, Feb. 26, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. North Mall, Webb Center

An opportunity to engage with local merchants and student vendors, as well as supporting cooperative economics within the African American community. Sponsored by Minds About Progress.

To view a complete calendar of events in celebration of Black History Month, please visit http://www.odu.edu/life/culture/culture-months/black-history. For more information, contact the Office of Intercultural Relations at oir@odu.edu or 757-683-4406.