\t .J Ji!___ "Believe In Yourself." Lecturing on improving selfes teem, Rodney Slater, Director of Minority Affairs for Governor Clinton, both entertained and edu ca ted the evening's diverse crowd . - photo by Public Relations Office. Program Focuses on Black Americans' Contribution to American Culture Twenty years ago most public places were racially segregated. It was not unusual for a sign saying "Colored Waiting Area" to be displayed in a train station. Although peo· pie like Martin Luther King tried to change these unjust practices, changes came slowly. Great strides have been made toward racial equality, but the problem of inequality still exists. Few people are aware of the contributions black Americans have made toward the growth of this country. From medicine to entertainment, blacks have made and con· tinue to make significant contributions to American culture. In order to commemorate the achievements of black Americans, February has been named Black History Month throughout the United States. The purpose of Black History Month is not merely to honor great black individuals; this month has also been designed to educate people about black history and culture. At Harding the celebration of Black History Month is a very rewarding experience. Richard King, assistant professor of Bible at Harding and local chairman of Black History Month, was the co-ordinator of the activities this year. Members of Skotia, an organization partially designed to educate people about black history and culture, also participated in organizaing the activities for the month. During the four years that Black History Month has been acknowledged at Harding, a variety of speakers have visited the campus. By expressing their views, the speakers aided the students in understanding black history. This year Rodney Slater, the Director of Minority Affairs for Governor Bill Clinton, spoke as a part of the Black History program and also as a part of the American Studies Lecture. Slater shared many insights on improving self-esteem and personal outlook . He also told about his personal struggles and achievements as a black American. Slater was not the first black with a success story to speak in the Benson Auditorium. In 1984 Alex Haley, the famous author of "Roots," spoke to a large audience of black history enthusiasts. "The Gospel Explosion," a gospel music extravaganza, is also a tradition during February. Gospel singing groups from Oklahoma and Arkansas traveled to Harding this year in order to be a part of the presentation. A group of Harding students also performed. "Gospel music was the only way we had of expressing ourselves for a long time," King said. Harding has also influenced the attitudes of Searcy residents toward Black History Month. In 1984, Searcy Mayor Jack Wiseman proclaimed the week of February 19-24 a special Black History Week in Searcy. In Wiseman's proclamation statement concerning the event, he described its importance. He stressed the value of understanding and appreciating the experiences, perspectives, achievements and aspirations of the black population . "Our main goal is mutual understanding," said King. "The more information we offer. the sooner our history and our future will be understood by men of all races ." ~ Black l'Iistory Month 41
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