In celebration of Black History Month, the Black Student Union will be "Stompin' at the Savoy" on Saturday during its 14th annual Harlem Night at South Campus' Harriman Hall.
The event, which was called "Jazzy Night" in its early years, celebrates the important period of the Harlem Renaissance in African American history.
"During the Harlem Renaissance, blacks were not allowed to party at the ever-so-famous Cotton Club," said Simone Hicks, president of Black Student Union. "The only blacks that were allowed in the club were performers."
The segregation caused many people to instead party at an alternative nightclub down the street called the Savoy, Hicks said.
"Most people only know about the enlightenment period of black history and not with the period known as the Harlem Renaissance," said Titilayo Fagbenle, co-chair of UB's Black Women United organization. "We would like all students to become more aware and educated on this period of our history."
Starting Saturday at 6:30 p.m., anyone attending the event can expect plenty of entertainment ranging from a live jazz band to tap dancing and a performance from rapper and poet Rhyson Hall, who bases his act on his views of society.
Keri-Anne Marshall, the community service chairperson of the Black Student Union, said all students are encouraged to attend the event, and it is not limited to African Americans.
"We would like all students to come out and enjoy what we consider a very important part of our history and have a great time with us," Marshall said.
Many students who have attended Harlem Night and other Black Student Union events before said the activities are both fun and worthwhile.
"Black Explosion is always a great night for me, and I'm sure this night will be the same," said Brandon Megna, a sophomore business major, referring to the annual dinner and fashion show, which will be on Feb. 26.
Harlem Night organizers said the dress code for Saturday night is semi-formal.
"This will be a black and white affair. However, if anyone does not have this attire, jeans and an appropriate shirt will be accepted. We just want people to come out and have a great time with us," Marshall said.
Hicks said the event will be particularly enjoyable if it draws a diverse crowd.
"The event starts at 6:30 p.m. and we would like people of all different races and ethnicities to come out and enjoy themselves with us," Hicks said. "It will truly be a night that everyone can enjoy."
Photo: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki
