Purdue News

BCC art ensembles honored for race relations outreach WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – The Purdue University Black Cultural Center earned an Honorable Mention for the Indiana Civil Rights Commission 1999 "Spirit of Justice Award" in the area of visual and performing arts. The awards recognize individuals and organizations for initiating outstanding programs to improve race relations in their communities. The BCC was honored for its four performing arts ensembles. "The student performing arts ensembles are the heartbeat of the Black Cultural Center," said BCC Director Renee Thomas. "I am proud they've been recognized on a state level for their efforts to enlighten other hearts and minds through artistic expression." The four performing arts ensembles are the Black Voices of Inspiration, a choir that specializes in gospel music, spirituals and contemporary songs by African-American composers; Haraka Writers, a group of student poets, essayists and short-story writers; Jahari Dance Troupe, which performs a repertoire including African, ballet, folk, jazz, tap and modern dance; and the New Directional Players, a theater group with a focus on presenting thought-provoking drama about the African-American experience. As a "Spirit of Justice Award" Honorable Mention recipient, the BCC will be featured in the civil rights commission's 1999 resource book, "Indiana's Best Practices Celebrating Diversity: Many Communities ... One Indiana." The book identifies successful race relations programs throughout the state and it lists more than 150 activities intended to improve race relations. The resource books will be distributed to schools, libraries, mayors and other government officials, law enforcement agencies, churches, services organizations and businesses throughout Indiana. Readers are encouraged to review the collection of "best practices" and work to implement the ideas that fit their particular mission. CONTACT: Thomas, (765) 494-3091; rathomas@hfs.purdue.edu To the Purdue News and Photos Page