Heritage & Culture Months

Asian Seasons Asian Seasons occurs throughout the year. Past events in the cultural seasons have included performances by Yellow Rage, martial arts demonstrations by Combate Eskrima Orehenal, and have addressed topics such as Asian Americans in politics. The focus is on implementation of programs, activities and events for the Old Dominion University community and the surrounding Hampton Roads area that reflect the contributions of the Asian culture and its impact on our society.

Black History Month Old Dominion University celebrates the contributions of African descendants during the February Black History Month observance. Noted Black History author Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week in 1926 to celebrate the achievements of African Americans. In 1976 this became known as Black History Month. The African Cultural Center staff along with student organizations and community groups host a variety of events that highlight Black culture, history and tradition. These events include plays, music, cultural dances, conferences, and a closing lecture series. Past noted events have been The Umoja Conference, “Black Face White”, “Happy to be Nappy”, “A White Woman Raised Black” and the Black History Lecture series, which featured Dr. Belle Wheelan, Secretary of Education for the State of Virginia in the 2004 Brown Versus Board of Education anniversary.

Native American Heritage Month During November, the University pays tribute to Native American heritage. Past heritage months have included guest speakers such as author Danielle Moretti-Langholts, Ph.D. Other programs have included a trading post and a performance by the Red Sky Dancers. The University pays special tribute to the accomplishments, history, and culture of people of the first Americans. The focus is on implementation of programs, activities and events for the Old Dominion University community and the surrounding Hampton Roads area that reflect the contributions of the Native American and its impact on our society.

GLBT Cultural Month Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Cultural Month is October. In the past, this month has been highlighted with a film festival and noted speakers such as author Jim Gladstone. The focus is on implementation of programs, activities and events for the Old Dominion community and the surrounding Hampton Roads area that reflect the richness of the GLBT community and its positive impact on our society.

Hispanic Heritage Month From September 15 - October 15, the University celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month. Past heritage months have included guest speakers such as renowned poet Shaggy Flores. Other programs have included Cafe Con Leche and a Health Fair. The University pays special tribute to the accomplishments, history, and culture of people of Latino/Hispanic descent. Programs and activities focus on the contributions of the Hispanic Culture and its impact on our society.

Cultural Explosion

This event highlights various cultural groups’ definition of fashion, music, dance, and food. Identifies that culture is more than race, ethnicity and gender. The event showcases fashion, food, and performances that reflect various cultures, including Indian, Vietnamese, Filipino, African American, African Caribbean, Hispanic/Latino, business, and Greek cultures.

Cultural Connections

Students from various cultural groups and organizations experiences an afternoon enjoying ethnic foods and meeting members from the University community.

Multicultural Graduation Celebration

This event pays tribute to graduating seniors and graduate students.

House Party

This event enhances African American students awareness of cultural resources and services offered by the Hugo O. Owens African American Cultural Center and MSS. It also promotes Black student organizations and activities.

Mo’Funk, Mo’ Jazz

End of year celebration held at the African American Cultural Center that features an outdoor jazz concert with food and fun.