BSA Hosts Annual Soul Food Night
The executive board of the Black Student Association on Saturday, Feb 15. Photo by Brandon Kwateng
The Black Student Association hosted their annual Soul Food Night on Saturday, Feb. 15, in the Kirby Ballroom, with student-led performances in Weber Music Hall. A celebration of Black culture, the annual event bridges UMD with the greater Duluth community and is an opportunity for people to come together, eat good food and tell stories.
Catering was from Mama T's Smokin Eats and highlighted soul food, including chicken wings, corn bread, mac and cheese, brisket, cake, pies and more.
“It’s just a 30 minute drive from the university to there,” said BSA Vice President Tomiwa Adedoyin.
Catering was from Mama T's Smokin Eats on 6428 Tower Ave, Superior, WI, 54880. Photo by Brandon Kwateng
Soul food roots trace back to African Americans in the South. Particularly in rural areas, foods like fried chicken, fried fish, sweet potato pie, red drinks, black-eyed peas and others were served during Emancipation celebrations and church gatherings.
During the 20th century, many African Americans moved from the South to the North for non-agricultural work, higher wages, educational opportunities, and an escape from racial violence, which is now known as "The Great Migration." With that, they brought their culinary traditions with them, and preparing these foods helped forge new communities and serve as a reminder of home.
According to BSA advisor Carmen Watson, the event started in the early 1990s and has been a part of the black student association since.
“Soul Food means a lot to the black community, as it comes from hardship,” Watson said. “During enslaved times, folks were given scraps to eat and communities turned something meant to be disgusting into something that tasted good. We are reminded of this each year during this event.”
Performances were held in the Weber Music Hall and featured a variety of acts from instrumental acts, singing and dances from Emmanuel Lawal, Figensia Alcenat, Jamie, Majur Atraktion, Senniya Roland-Nerayo, Denfield Steppers, Figensia Alcenat and BSA’s own Dance Group.
BSA Dance Group performing in Weber. Photo by Brandon Kwateng
Performances were held in the Weber Music Hall and featured a variety of acts from instrumental acts, singing and dances from Emmanuel Lawal, Figensia Alcenat, Jamie, Majur Atraktion, Senniya Roland-Nerayo, Denfield Steppers, Figensia Alcenat and BSA’s own Dance Group.
“This event means a lot to us, the students get to educate, showcase food, and talent,” Watson said.
“As a black woman, I love this event. I love my culture and being able to share it with friends, strangers, colleagues at UMD and in the Duluth community. I am so glad the black student association has continued putting on this event year after year,” she continued.
Student engagement was noticeable, with performers bringing students in and having them participate in acts. Cheers were heard all throughout the night for the performers.
“Black history month is a time to remember the people who came before us and what they did for us”, said Ilm’aime Ntwambe.
“We have to make sure to empower, serve and make sure their voices are heard”, said Samantha Richardson.
“I thought the executive board for BSA did wonderful coordinating this event,” Watson said. “It's one of my favorite events to be able to see all the talented students on campus. The food was amazing and catered from Mama T’s Smokin eats, which we hadn't done before.”
Holding this night during February also holds an importance due to it being Black History Month in the United States — a celebration of the achievements and history of African Americans. Black History Month became more recognized in the country, with President Gerald acknowledging it during the celebration of the United States Bicentennial.
“Black History Month is about black culture. Soul food and its existence is tied to Black history, so why not celebrate that during Black History Month,” Watson said.
“I would love folks to know that they are welcome to come,” she continued. “All the events are open to all and we welcome all to come and learn about other cultures and experiences. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone to explore new things”.
More information about BSA can be found on their Instagram page @umdbsa or by contacting them at umdbsa@d.umn.edu.