BY Sarah Ruiz

Online Editor

May 20, over 50 guests filled the Wellington Event Center to celebrate African Culture Night. The night was hosted by the Center for Diversity and Social Justice and was intended to educate the Central campus on the many cultures housed on the African continent.

Senior ITAM and public relations major Peter Malath spoke about Africa, and gave facts to help educate the audience. Malath shared that Africa is the second largest continent and is home to 54 countries.

“Africa’s not as bad as people think it is. It’s our goal to make it better,” Malath said. “There’s a beautiful part of Africa and that’s why we are here tonight.”

Malath credited the media with the popular view that Africa is strictly war, poverty and hunger. While he did acknowledge that these problems are found in countries in Africa, he also wants people to understand that life in Africa focuses on other qualities of life.

“Even if we don’t have 1 cent in our pocket, we are happy,” Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences Blaise Dondji said.

The night gave the audience a glimpse into life in Africa. Dondji shared stories of life before moving to Central, and encouraged the room to share in the culture of the night.

Spoken word was performed by freshman Beatrice Wambui, African dance was performed by a group of students and traditional African foods were provided as well.

“Keep the African tradition wherever you go,” Dondji said. “Let’s keep our tradition; that’s all we have.”