Africa Day to Feature Exhibit, Film, Fashion Show and Discussions

Old Dominion University will host Africa Day on Thursday, Oct. 20.

"Embracing Multiple Voices and Weaving New Narratives" is the theme of the daylong event, which is an effort by ODU's multicultural campus to dispel the negative stereotypes about the continent.

"Africa Day at ODU was instituted in 2007 as an opportunity to educate students, faculty, staff and the community about current events and the cultural characteristics of the many countries on the African continent," said Alicia Phillips-Dunlap, associate director for intercultural initiatives in ODU's Office of Intercultural Relations.

"Through student and faculty collaboration, the event highlights regional and national achievements in Africa in an effort to dispel the stereotypes that often are propagated by news headlines."

Here's a list of events being held on Africa Day. All events are free of charge, and are being held in Webb Center:

12:30-1 p.m.

African Nations Exhibition

North Mall

An information fair on the 55 countries of Africa

1:30-2:45 p.m.

Presentations: Study Abroad Immersions in Senegal and South Africa

Hampton/Newport News Room

Marie Pierre Myrick will share information about the new short-term study abroad program in Senegal.

Jennifer Fish, associate professor and chair of women's studies, will join in a study abroad presentation with ODU students who have just returned from ODU's service-learning program in South Africa, where they worked with a range of nonprofit organizations to promote social development and human rights.

3-4:15 p.m.

Film and Discussion: The Paradigm Effect in Resolving Conflict

Hampton/ Newport News Rooms

Screening of the film "Flower in Rwanda," with guided discussion to follow.

Moderated by Berhanu Mengistu, ODU professor of urban studies and public administration, and Nina Frola Joyner

5:30-6:30 p.m.

Roundtable Discussion: Multiple Voices in the Horn of Africa

Hampton/Newport News Room

Discussion moderated by Ambassador Bismarck Myrick, lecturer in ODU's College of Arts and Letters

6:45-8 p.m.

Africa Day Reception

North Cafeteria

Authentic West African cuisine catered by the Amazing African Restaurant

8-9 p.m.

Cultural Performances and Fashion Show

North Cafeteria

African Caribbean Association presents African cultures, fashion and art.

For more information about Africa Day celebrations at ODU, contact OIR at 683-4406.

The Office of Intercultural Relations strives to fulfill its commitment to students of diverse backgrounds, by sponsoring and supporting programs and activities like Africa Day, which enhance the educational experience and cross-cultural understanding of all ODU students.