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2FROM THE EDITORIAL STAFF

Welcome to the Multicultural Resource Center!We are so excited to be back! Welcome all new students, new readers and returning contributors. Spring 2016 promises to bring a wealth of exciting new initiatives across campus and will be no different for the Multicultural Resource Center (MRC) and our Culture Connects Newsletter.

This spring MRC will host events for Lunar New Year, Black History, Womens History and Asian Heritage months, co-sponsor a number of Culture and Food events with Dining Services by Sodexo, co-promote the Bearcats Dont Standby Hate Speech Prevention Messaging with REACH, MHOPE and the RedZone Committee, more diversity recruitment events with Undergraduate Admissions such as our annual Letter Writing Campaign, host new pop-up events across campus, and begin launching the Binghamton University Chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success, a leadership development program for cultural student leaders. If you are interested in taking part connect with Tanyah Barnes at tbarnes@binghamton.edu.

The newsletter will continue to expanded as we infuse more reader submissions such as articles, op-ed stories, poetry, and photography; we look forward to your submissions! The newsletter team has been expanded to include undergraduate and graduate student staff. If you are interested in joining the team, send a message to mrc@binghamton.edu with subject joining the Culture Connects Team.

Sincerely,Your Culture Connects Team

About Culture ConnectsCulture Connects is a newsletter designed to provide the campus with up-to-date information about cultural events, programs and opportunities available to Binghamton University Community.

If you would like to receive an electronic copy of the newsletter every month, pleases email the Culture Connects Team with subject subscribe to mrc@binghamton.edu.

Meet the Culture Connects Team

Samantha Gillette MRC Program Assistant

Jonathan Alvizuri Undergraduate Marketing Intern

Wendy Yang Undergraduate Marketing Intern

Priyanka Das Undergraduate Marketing Intern

Yeqing LiuUndergraduate Marketing Intern

Gabrielle Cruz Undergraduate Marketing Intern

Yikai Zhang Undergraduate Marketing Intern

Dominique RussellUndergraduate Marketing Intern

Tanyah Barnes, M.EdAdvising Editor

For questions, comments, advertising or submitting content, contact the team at mrc@binghamton.edu

3MRC Upcoming Events

MRC would like you to save the date for the following upcoming events:Lunar New Year CelebrationMon, Feb 8th, 5-8pm, Hinman Dining Hall

Letter Writing CampaignWed, Feb 10th, 10-3pm, Old Union HallWed, Feb 17th,11-5pm, UU325

Mardi Gras CelebrationThur, Feb 18th, 7-8pm, Hunter HallSponsored by Hunter RAs

MRC Student Leaders MeetingTue, Feb 23rd, 7-8pm, UU 111

Black History Month SpeakerWed, Feb 24th, 6-7pm, Old Union Hall Sponsored by Black Student Union

BHM Movie Night & DiscussionWed, Feb 17th, 5-10pm, Undergrounds

University Day at Oakdale MallSat, Feb 20th, 11am-3pm, Oakdale Mall

Culture at ChenangoTue, Feb 16th, 11:15am-3:30am, Chenango Room

MRC Bi-Weekly Diversity Talk ShowBegins in February

National Society of Leadership andSuccessOrientation: Tue, Feb.9th, 5:30-6:45pmSpeaker: Tue, Feb.9th, 7-8pmAll meetings in (UU 120)

MRC NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

Subscribe to the MRC Events Calender at mrc.binghamton.edu

to stay up-to-date on all MRC Events throughout the year!

4MRC NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

Culture Connects Grant Recipients

The MRC is proud to offer a Culture Connects

grant for Cultural Student Organizations. The grant is designed to provide cultural student groups

funding to conduct programs to educate the

campus community.

A recipient will be selected every month

and announced right here on the Culture Connects

newsletter!

For more information go to:

http://www.binghamton.edu/

multicultural-resource-center/programs/

grants-funding.html

MRC SPRING 16 TEAM

Meet the fall MRC student intern and volunteer team!

PROGRAM ASSISTANTSSamantha GilletteJose Artiles

GRADUATE INTERNSAnji LiuMengdai SunWenting ZhouZelin Wang

PROGRAMMING ASSISTANT INTERNSDi Yi (Maggie) WangFuzayl NoralievHyojung ChoiPeony ChengSarah BonicheSeung-Nyun Kim

MARKETING INTERNSDominique E RusselGabriella A CruzJonathan AlvizuriPriyanka DasWendy YangYeqing Liu Yikai Zhang

CULTURE CONNECTORSBae (Mary) YiFatoumata KaneJason LeeKaren LiuPrince GrantRaven GomezSarah SamsonYanlu ZhaoZiyue Zhang

5MRC NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

DO YOU WANT TO BE ON A TV TALK SHOW?

THEN JOIN THE MRCS DIVERSITY TALK SHOW!

The Multicultural Resource Center is looking for students to participate in its new Diversity Talk Show. The show will be produced by BTV6 and will include several

panelists who will discus various topics during the program. If youre interested contact Mengchen Huang.

Contact:

MRC Program Coordinator: Mengchen Huang

Email: mhuang@binghamton.edu

Phone Number: 607-777-6071

Interested in advertising in the MRC Culture Connects Newsletter?Increase your business among Binghamton University students, faculty and staff. The MRC is home for more than 100 cultural student organizations on campus. With more than 1,700 students subscribed to our Monthly Newsletter, consider us a great marketing tool for reaching the university community. Binghamton Universitys student of color and International student populations are increasing. Make your business more visible among students.

For more information, please contact the Culture Connects Newsletter Team at mrc@binghamton.edu or 607-777-4472.

6Born and raised in Brooklyn, Samantha Gillette has grown to love the Upstate area, especially the Binghamton Campus Community. Samantha completed her undergraduate degree at Binghamton University in Psychology in May 2015, and is currently working to complete her Master of Business Administration with a concentration in marketing, expected graduation date May 2016. Samantha served as a Graduate Marketing Intern to the MRC in the fall and is excited to return to the MRC as a Program Assistant this semester. She loves working for the MRC because it allows her not only to learn about different cultures, but to experience the traditions, history and fun of different cultures as well. When she gradauates she will forever hold the memories of her Binghamton University and the MRC close to her heart.

Jose Artiles, is thrilled to join the MRC this semester as a program assistant. Jose graduated from Binghamton University in 2013 with a degree in Human Development. Jose currently is a graduate student in the College of Community and Public Affairs (CCPA). In May he will be completing his Masters Degree in Public Administration. His goal is to be able make a difference within his community. Coming from the Bronx, NY there are not many programs available to those who want to make a difference in the community. I hope to be that change which will help improve the conditions of those in my community.

Samantha Gillette

Jose Artiles

MEET OUR PROGRAM ASSISTANTS

7LUNAR NEW YEAR

Lunar New Year is the first day of the calendar whose months are coordinated by the cycles of the moon. To most Asian countries such as China, Korea and Japan, Lunar New Year is the most important festival of the year. The date of Lunar New Year in American calendar varies every year. In 2014 the Lunar New Year fell on January 31st, in 2015 the Lunar New Year fell on February 19th and this year the Lunar New Year, Year of Monkey, will be celebrated on February 8th.

Food is the most important part of Lunar New Year. People gather together on New years eve for family a reunion dinner. In China, dumplings and fish are the most common food in the reunion dinner. Japanese typically have buckwheat noodles, a symbol of longevity. Lastly Koreans eat rice cake soup and beef short rib for the new year. Every dish has a symbolic meaning in relation to its culture generally following themes of good luck and prosperity in the coming year.

During the celebration of Chinese New Year, elderly people give out lucky money in a red envelopes to the younger generation. Giving lucky money during Chinese New Year is considered lucky for both the

giver and the receiver. Those who give will invite the flow of money in during the entire year and symbolize that the family luck is also passed on to the children and the unmarried teens.

In conclusion, Lunar New Year is a significant part of Asian Culture with traditions passed down from generation to generation. To those who celebate may you have a wonderful holiday and best wishes for the upcoming year! By Yeqing Liu Undergraduate Marketing Intern

8INTRODUCING NSLS

NSLS stands for the National Society of Leadership and Success also know as Sigma Alpha Pi. The organization is made up of students who have shown leadership ability and have taken the steps necessary to set them on a path for success. The NSLS provides a whole host of benefits to its members via speaker broadcasts, success coaches, and access to exclusive scholarships and awards.

On February 9th, the NSLS Binghamton University chapter had their first new members orientation. Students learned the steps of the leadership development program, schedule of events, and mingled amongst their peers with whom they will be undergoing the induction process with. Activities for the event helped students to think about their leadership goals and enhance their communication skills. NSLS also osted its first Speaker Broadast featuring Emmy award winning television newscaster for ABC news and anchor for Nightline, Juju Chang. The remaining broadcasts are listed below. The success of the orientation leaves a great mark for the NSLS at Binghamton who has just recently began a chapter on campus. The society is the nations largest leadership honor society and the new Binghamton chapter is the latest to join the other 507 already established chapters nationwide, comprised of 577,705 members. The society uses a step-by-step program during its induction process to develop leadership skills, provide a way for self-reflection and expose to students its nationwide network.

The NSLS membership, which is lifelong, provides students with access to a myriad of benefits ranging from exclusive scholarships, on campus events, and an online job bank. Eligible students are often nominated by a supervisor, professor or other faculty member. Society membership has shown a track record for success. Around 89% of society members start careers in fields of their choice and 83% of those students directly attribute their success to their involvement in the NSLS program. Having just begun their chapter on the Binghamton University campus and given the NSLSs impressive track record, we look forward to seeing the extent of their impact on the Bearcat community.

What is NSLS?

9DID YOU KNOW: VALENTINES DAY 101

Valentines Day is approaching and its time to step up your game and show your loved ones how much you truly care again! But as popular as this holiday is, what do you really know about Valentines Day?

1. Did you know that Valentine is known to be a legendary hero that helped performed marriages for young lovers when marriage was outlawed for young men in Rome by Emperor Claudius II?

2. Did you know that during the Victorian times, signing a Valentines Day card was considered to be bad luck?

3. Did you know that during the 1800s, physicians would advise their patients to eat chocolate to heal for their lost love?

4. Did you know wearing your heart on your sleeve is more than just a phrase? It references the middle ages when young men and women drew names to see who their valentines would be. After that they would pin the names on their sleeve for one week. 5. Did you know that 15% of U.S women sends flowers to themselves on Valentines Day?

6. Did you know that about 150 million Valentines Day cards are exchanged each year? 7. Did you know that $1 billion worth of chocolate is purchased in the U.S on Valentines Day?

8. Did you know that teachers receive the most valentines? 9. Did you know that during Valentines Day, in Japan, women are the ones expected to give gifts and chocolate to men?

10. Did you know that I love you in German is Ich Liebe Dich?

By Wendy YangUndergraduate Marketing Intern

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SUPER BOWL SUNDAY

One such time I was acutely aware of this fiesta of cultures was when I watched the Super Bowl. The Super Bowl is popular because of a lot of reasons, said my friend Angelo Hurley, a junior majoring in linguistics. The game is really exciting and competitive, and is one of the most competitive matchups in the world. Somehow, I feel like I added something onto my Asian-American resume by finally participating in one of the most modern American traditions.Last year, Angelo and I were invited to a friends house to watch this championship game. Before that, I had never seen a Super Bowl; whats more, I didnt even know how people even played football. Growing up, the only sports my Indian-Chinese family ever watched was cricket or badminton. I shook off my frostbitten scarf and jacket that day as I stepped into my friends apartment in Susquehanna, not knowing what to expect from this American pseudo-holiday. I was met with boxes of pizza and buffalo wings, a loud television and even louder spectators. Was this what Super Bowl Sunday was for the typical American? Why is this part of American Culture? I wondered.

American culture has developed itself mainly into an image projected onto the world as one that embraces sports, good beer, and a strong sense of patriotism, Angelo said. I certainly believe the Super Bowl is an important part of American Culture. And he wouldnt alone in thinking that, I realized as I saw advertisements for Super Bowl Sunday-- from pizza deals to Coca Cola commercials that show a group of friends donning their favorite teams jerseys, the Super Bowl seemed to be an annual gathering site for marketing, partying, and heated yelling and cheering in front of the television. The Super Bowl has a presence in many other aspects besides just being a football game. Super Bowl parties are very common among American households, and it is also the most watched event in American television almost every year without fail, Angelo said. The best two teams in Americas most popular sport face off for ultimate glory, the best commercials are put on to fill in the gaps, and a really amazing halftime show is put on for all the viewers to see. Its huge presence in American culture also makes it hard to avoid and NOT watch, even if you arent a big football fan.

Coming to Binghamton University opened me to a plethora of new experiences, expected and unexpected. I came to college knowing that while I would (finally) have a bed that I didnt have to share with my sibling, I would have to manage work without parental reminders every five minutes. Coming from a high school in New York City with over 700 people in my grade alone, however, I didnt expect to find myself in culture shock with every event and gathering I went to. By my second semester freshman year, I had made friends in this university from literally all around the world and I found myself growing more and more from the different lives that surrounded me.

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SUPER BOWL SUNDAY

A Fans Perspective

Angelo was definitely right about that. Being the second-largest day of food consumption in the country (after Thanksgiving) and one of the most-watched broadcasts in all of U.S. television history, the Super Bowl felt like something I had been missing out on for most of my life; as if there was a second Christmas that I was just out of the loop. At the very least, I could take comfort in the fact that around 52 percent of the people who watch the Super Bowl arent football fans. And why wouldnt they watch the Super Bowl? The hype is contagious, spreading as fast as the rate the pizza is eaten and the beer is chugged. And in college, I had no real reason not to join my friends at their Super Bowl party. And Im glad; it was an experience I probably wont ever forget.

Any predictions for this year?Both defenses are some of the strongest in the NFL, and both teams have very well-known and skilled quarterbacks leading their teams. I think its going to be a very competitive and entertaining game, so long as everyone decides to show up to the game.

What team are you rooting for? I personally want the Denver Broncos to win, but anythings possible in this game.

Who are your favorite players on your team?Who do you feel carries the team? Peyton Manning is one of my most favorite NFL players ever. Ive watched him play many games over the years, and I certainly hope he wins one last Lombardi trophy before he (likely) retires. The Broncos defense certainly carries the team though, but hopefully the offense can make a great showing as well!

Angelo Hurley is a junior majoring in linguistics.

Besides being a general football lover, he is a loyal

supporter of his hometown team, the Buffalo Bills.

By Priyanka DasUndergraduate Marketing Intern

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Culture Chats is a series of interviews conducted by students featuring Binghamton University faculty, staff, alumni and the like! This series will help you get to know diverse professionals who currently work at or have attended Binghamton. You will have an opportunity to get to know the person, gain advice or learn about unique and interesting pathways to careers.

Culture Chat with Tanyah Barnes, Interim Assistant Director and Diversity Fellow at Binghamton University

This month, I was fortunate enough to interview Tanyah Barnes, a the new assistant director for MRC who achieved her Master of Education at University of South Florida in 2009 before entering Binghamton University to work in multiple leadership positions on campus. Tanyah Barnes is a huge supporter of diversity, inclusivity, and unification. However, in her perspective, these words take on more meaning than we know. Today we will learn more about who Tanyah is, what brought her here to us today, and how she is involved with us on campus.

Here is what she had to say:

Me: Whats your name, current occupation and where do you live?Tanyah: My name is Tanyah Barnes, I am currently Interim Assistant Director of Multicultural Resource Center and Diversity Fellow for the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Binghamton University. I am from Tampa, Florida but I currently live in Endwell, New York!

Me: What is your role at Binghamton University?Tanyah: Currently, I work in the MRC, serve as Advisor of Sigma Alpha Pi which is the National Society of Leadership and Success Chapter at Binghamton University, advise PULSE, serve on the board of the Professional Staff Senate and as second vice president for the Faculty and Staff of Color Association. In addition to my work in the MRC, I also serve dual role within Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion temporarily while Mengchen is on leave. Outside of campus I serve on the Board of Directors for YWCA of Binghamton and Broome County, as a volunteer for United Way and on the Executive Board for Broome County Urban League Young Professionals.

Me: How did you come to Binghamton? How did you first get involved with Binghamton University?Tanyah: After receiving my masters degree in College Student Affairs at University of South Florida in 2009, I came to Binghamton University as a Resident Hall Director in College in the Woods. I worked in residential life for 4 years where I also served as Residential Director of the Educational Opportunity Programs Binghamton Enrichment Program, affectionately known as BEP. After my time in Residential Life I worked for Communications and Marketing and the Graduate School and then moved into the diversity fellow role within the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

CULTURE CHATS

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CULTURE CHATS

Me: Can you share one of your fondest memories about working or studying at Binghamton University?Tanyah: I have had many wonderful experiences while working at Binghamton. One of my fondest memories is teaching the Peer Counselor Leadership Development course and serving as Residential Coordinator with Karima Legette and Josue Quinones, we had the chance to work with and train some amazing peer counselors. Additionally, I thoroughly enjoyed helping to create the first annual Alumni of Color Reunion this past fall.

Me: If you were an ice cream, what flavor would you be?Tanyah: If I was an ice cream, I would be something deliciously interesting- an odd combination that does not seem like it would go together but turns out wonderful like Mint Ice cream with strawberry syrup, white chocolate shavings (though I am not a huge fan of chocolate), and graham cracker swirls. Interesting but still very yummy!

Me: What professional advice would you tell a student who is thinking about becoming a diversity fellow as well?Tanyah: I would advise the student to be open-minded, flexible, and to O.K with trying new things that might take you on very unexpected paths, in life. Not everything goes as planned, you might have to carve out your own path and things could turn out even better than expected. I did not graduate college envisioning myself working as a diversity fellow, I did not even know the role existed. But I enjoy my job because I get to contribute to campus life in a variety of new and interesting ways- I get paid to learn and try new things- who wouldnt want to do that!

Me: Who has inspired you in your life and why?Tanyah: My grandmother. She was a servant leader, and taught me to face challenges head on and to create my own path in life. She was a community activists that never accepted no no for an answer, she faught tirelessly for the underserved in her community.

Me: What does diversity/ culture mean to you? What is your personal philosophy on diversity, equity, and inclusion?Tanyah: Diversity means, to immediately feel accepted wherever you are, regardless of your identities or personal background. To me, these concepts should be symbiotic. A community that is truly inclusive will innately be diverse because multiple identities, backgrounds, perspectives will be present- if the voice of any part/whole group is glaringly missing the community is not inclusive.

Me: If you had the power, what is one thing you would change about Binghamton University?Tanyah: If I had the power, I would reshape how the Student Association operates so that there is a stronger connection between the association and campus professionals. There is wonderful brain trust amongst our campus faculty and staff that could truly benefit our students both in- and outside the classroom. I would love to erase some of the perceived barriers on advising and collaboration, I would want to unify us together to be a connected whole.

By Wendy YangUndergraduate Marketing Intern

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MINORITY OWNED LOCAL RESOURCES

Barbershops & Salons

Blazin Cuts Barbershop 291 Conklin Ave., Binghamton (607)771-6786Envy You Salon & Boutique 125 Main St., Binghamton (607)772-8187Envy You Salon & Boutique (Men) 125 Main St., Binghamton (607)238-7551Faces Barbershop 122 Washington Ave., Endicott (607)422-1010Five Star Variety Barbershop 200 Oak Hill Ave., Endicott (607)786-0568Grand Masters Barbershop 192 Main St., Binghamton (347)853-4099Jus Hair Boutique & Salon 192 Main St., Binghamton (607)296-4322Miracles 157 Main St., Binghamton (607)771-6566New York Styles 280 Main St., Johnson City (607)729-8390New York Styles II 203 Odell Ave, Endicott (607)349-7344Platinum Cuts Barbershop 35 Pine St., Binghamton (607)621-1332Shunas Hair Studio 175 Clinton St., Binghamton (607)237-0206

Grocery Stores

Asian Food Store 200 Main St., Binghamton (607)729-9988Euro Foods 9 Glenwood Ave., Binghamton (607)729-5905European Market 20 Downs Ave., Binghamton (607)766-9509Hang Phat Market 278 Main St., Binghamton (607)797-4087Uncles Asian Market 200 Grand Ave., Johnson City (607)777-9440Nannerys Grocery Store 184 Clinton St., Binghamton (607)724-4905L & R West Indian American Grocery Bakery

10 Lake Ave., Binghamton (607)217-7225

DiRenzo Brothers Bakery 1552 Henry Street, Binghamton (607)724-1444

Religious Establishments

AMETrinity AME Zion Church 203 Oak St., Binghamton (607)724-4772Calvary Baptist Church 466 Chenango St., Binghamton (607)722-1867

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MINORITY OWNED LOCAL RESOURCES

Cultural Organizations

African Student Organization ASOAmerican Kurdish CouncilArabic Association AAAsian Outlook AOAsian Student Union ASUAssociation of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting ALPFABert Mitchell Minorities in Management Organizations BMMMOBinghamton Association of Mixed Students BAMS

CULTURAL ORGANIZATION LISTING

Cornerstone Community Church 911 East Main St., Endicott (607)239-4127First Baptist Church of Johnson City 1321 Reynolds Rd., Johnson City (607)238-7795Korean Baptist Chuirch of Binghamton 901 Murray Hill Rd., Vestal (607)729-3562

Byzantine Catholic - Eastern RiteHoly Spirit Byzantine Catholic 360 Clinton St., Binghamton (607)797-2122

CatholicNewman House for Roman Catholic Students 400 Murray Hill Rd., Vestal (607)798-7202St. Patricks Church 9 Leroy St., Binghamton (607)722-1060

IslamIslamic Awareness Center 74 Conklin Ave., Binghamton (607)723-2572Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier 161 Grand Ave., Johnson City (607)729-7265

JudaismBeth David Synagogue 39 Riverside Dr., Binghamton (607)722-1793Chabad Center for Jewish Student Life 420 Murray Hill Rd., Vestal (607)797-0015Temple Concord Reform 9 Riverside Dr., Binghamton (607)723-7355Temple Israel 4737 Deerfield Pl., Vestal (607)723-7461

Non-DenominationalGrace Tabernacle Church 98 Glenwood Ave., Binghamton (607)729-3626Greater Faith & Deliverance Ministries 219 Oak St., Binghamton (607)821-1828

PentecostalCalvarys Love 1315 Reynolds Rd., Johnson City (607)797-3757First Assembly of God 254 Washington St., Binghamton (607)723-3218Mt. Sinai Church of God in Christ 126 S. Washington St., Binghamton (607)723-2361New Heights Ministries Church 17 Front St., Binghamton (607)723-2361River of Life Cogic 28 Frederick St., Binghamton (607)621-4592Salvation Temple Church 103 Susquehanna St., Binghamton (607)724-3906

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Binghamton BhangraBinghamton China Care Club BCCCBinghamton University Gospel ChoirBinghamton University Japanese Association BUJABinghamton University Korean Undergraduate Student Association BUKUSABlack Dance Repertoire BDRBlack Latino Asian Caucasian Keeping Unity BLACK UnityBlack Student Union BSUCaribbean Student Association CSACharles Drew Minority Pre-Health SocietyChinascopeChinese American Student Union CASUChinese Students and Scholars Association CSSADiverse Cultural Xcellence DCXGivology at Binghamton UniversityGraduate African Student Organization GASOHaitian Student Association HaSAHellenic Cultural Society HCSHillel/Jewish Student Union HillelHong Kong Exchange Square HKESIndian Graduate Student Organization IGSOIndian International Student Union IISUInternational Connection ICInternational Flag Dancers IFDIrish Student UnionItalian ClubJewish Community CenterJUMP Nation (Juvenile Urban Multicultural Program)Korean American Student Association KASAKorean Network in Culture and Time KONECTLadies Owning Their Curls, Kinks, & Straights LOCKSLatin American Student Union LASUMASTIMen of Color Scholastic Society MCS2Muslim Student Association MSANational Association for the Advancement of Colored People NAACPNational Society of Black Engineers NSBENukporfe (African Dance Group)Philippine-American League PALPolish Student Association

CULTURAL ORGANIZATION LISTING

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Powerful United Ladies Striving to Elevate PULSEQuimbamba Latin Dance TeamSHADESSociety of Hispanic Professional Engineers SHPESociety of Women Engineers SWESpanish ClubSul PoongTaiwanese American Student Coalition TASCTaiwanese Student AssociationThurgood Marshall Pre-Law SocietyThai Cultural Awareness ClubTomorrows Hope in North Korea THiNKTurkish Culture Association TURCATurkish Student AssociationVietnamese Student Association VSAWE SPEAK BU (Women, Empower, Support, Educate, Advocate, and Know at BU)Womens Student Union WSUX-Factr Step Team

LGBTQ Clubs/Resources

SHADESRainbow Pride Union RPUEquality ProjectBarabing.org

Lesbian and Gay Family Building Project

Greek Organizations

Asian Greek Council AGCDelta Kappa Delta Sorority Iota Nu Delta Fraternity Kappa Phi Lambda Sorority Nu Alpha Phi Fraternity Sigma Psi Zeta Sorority Pi Delta Psi Fraternity

CULTURAL ORGANIZATION LISTING

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Religious Groups

Binghamton Korean Catholic Community BKCCBinghamton Sikh Association BSABrothers and Sisters in Christ BASICCampus Bible Fellowship CBFChinese Christian Fellowship CCFHillel/Jewish Student Union HillelHindu Student Council HSCIndian Christian Fellowship ICFKorean American Baptist Student Organization KABSOKorean American Christian Fellowship KACFMuslim Student Association MSASpirit in the BoxThree Angles Message Christian Club 3AMZionist Organization

Latino Greek Council LGCLambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity Omega Phi Beta Sorority Sigma Lambda Gamma Sorority Sigma Lambda Upsilon Sorority Lambda Theta Alpha Sorority Chi Upsilon Sigma

Multicultural Greek Council MGCMALIK Fraternity MALIKalpha Kappa Delta Phi Sorority Lambda Sigma Upsilon Fraternity Sigma Iota Alpha Delta Epsilon Psi Fraternity Sigma Omicron Pi National Pan-Hellenic Council NPHCPhi Beta Sigma Fraternity

CULTURAL ORGANIZATION LISTING

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH

As our campus gears up to celebrate Black History Month it is necessary to reflect on black history in our great nation. As I think back in time one question comes to mind: How far have we come since the abolition of slavery and the civil rights movement? The reason this question lingers in my mind is due to the recent events that have occurred regarding people of color and the police. Lately it seems as though we have taken 10 steps back in the valiant fight for equality. But before I jump to conclusions, lets observe some facts. It has been 151 years since the abolition of slavery, 61 years since the Montgomery Bus Boycott, 52 years since the enactment of the Civil Rights Act, and 51 years since the Selma to Montgomery March. One can conclude that, it has been some time since the height of racism in America, and that we have made considerable advancements in reaching equality.

However, the last four years have shown that there is still a racial rift in America. Trayvon Martin is a name that echoed throughout every household in America in 2012. The untimely death of this Florida teen received national attention and forced a nation to address the dreaded and often avoided race debate. Next, we fast-forward to Ferguson Missouri in 2014, where Michael Brown, a Ferguson teen was shot and killed by a police officer. As a non-guilty verdict was reached, Ferguson turned to flames as lootings and protests overwhelmed the city and the nation. In 2014, another mans life was taken while in police custody: Eric Garner. The death of this Staten Island father added fuel to an already blazing fire. Garner was killed in choke-hold while shouting I cant breathe. This sparked several protests throughout the city as well as a national I cant breathe campaign. Now we move into 2015, where Freddie Gray also was fatally injured while in police custody. Baltimore sprung into action as a city decided enough was enough. The Baltimore riots were broad-casted on every major news station and images of a city divided flooded into households all across the U.S. Curfews were established throughout the city, and Baltimore went up in flames. Peaceful protests transitioned into violent riots.

BBBaltimore in the 1960s during the Civil Rights Movement

Baltimore in 2015 during protests for Freddie Grey

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH

So where does all of this anger and violence leave us? Have we changed as a people since the times of great racism and segregation? I spoke to Dr. Lois Einhorn, a professor here at Binghamton University, to gain insight on this question. Dr. Einhorn specializes in courses that focus on social action as well as compassion and non-violence. Dr. Einhorn stated I grew up hearing the term melting pot all the time and hearing how America is a melting pot and we must be this way, as I have taught I have found melting pots within each individual person. I meet students who are a product of those who have bonded together with others outside of their cultural norms, and that to me shows progress. However there is more that needs to be done to continue to progress and the first thing is to for our education system to educate students on peace and non-violence because that will help us understand hate and learn to react to that hate in a more powerful way than violence or else we will not be able to combat it. This progress is shown daily, our schools are integrated; the KKK although it may still exist has immensely lost its influence on society. We live in a world instantly connected by the click of a button and due to this we are able to spread awareness of the injustice that exists. People are mobilizing much quicker in response to racial injustices. The people who are protesting in solidarity of these causes are more diverse than they were in 1964. Since the devastating deaths of those mentioned above in police custody, wearable body cameras have been in demand from law enforcement agencies all over the U.S. In Chicago, the site of a more recent death while in police custody, the Mayor has required that every police officer be well trained in the usage of the tazer. So yes, we have changed as a nation and have made great progress. Within the last four years our generation has added to black history by joining together with people from all walks of life to support the equal treatment of others. But, it goes without saying that there is still so much more that we need to accomplish and we must continue to move forward in the fight for equality.

If there is no struggle, there is no progress. Frederick Douglass

By Gabrielle Cruz,

Undergraduate Marketing InternSources: http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/27/us/baltimore-riots-timeline/

http://www.ibtimes.com/baltimore-riots-2015-freddie-gray-slammed-head-police-van-causing-fatal-injury-report-1904371http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2014/11/25/us/ferguson-photos.html

http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2014/08/13/us/ferguson-missouri-town-under-siege-after-police-shooting.html?_r=0

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH EVENTS

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH EVENTS

Come get a taste of Afro-fusion Cuisine in honor of Black History Month!

In honor of the All Black Lives Matter theme for this years BHM

Celebrations, MRC is hosting a throw back movie night featuring Higher Learning

directed by John Singleton. Come watch and discuss!

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH EVENTS

BSU Proudly presents their keynote speaker, Janet Mock. She is a writer, transgender rights activist, and former staff editor of People magazines website.

Help us welcome her Feb. 24 at 6PM in Old Union Hall

BSU along with the Binghamton University Gospel Choir present Sunday Best! This Gospel Choir Showcase will feature BUs finest gospel talent and a spirited time.

Feb 21st Old Union Hall, 3PM

Kickoff the your Friday night with a Poetry Jam! Featuring the artistry of Alysia Harris & Jasmine Nans.

Feb 19th Rockefeller Center, 6PM

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CULTURAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Latin American and Caribbean Area Studies (LACAS) Program invites undergrads to give their proposals for research presentations at the 3rd Biennial Undergraduate Research Conference held

Saturday, march 12. All submissions on topics related to Latin America, the Caribbean, and people of Latin American and Caribbean disaporas are welcome.

To enter, submit a brief (around 200 word) abstract of your 15 minute conference presentation with name, paper title, major and college/university to LACASConference2016@gmail.com

The new, extended deadline for submissions is February 15, 2016!

Dragon Night 2016

Kick off the Chinese New Year right with Dragon Night 2016. The night will be littered with performances, delicious food, and raffle prizes! Do not miss out. Get your tickets early, tabling

will take place Feb. 2nd, 12:00PM - 4:00PM

Tickets are $8 for early birds and $10 at the door.

Doors open at 6:30PM on Feb. 6th, 7:00pm to 9:00pm in Mandela Room

SHADES invites you to their weekly first weekly GB Meeting. The topic of discussion will be about PDA in the LGBTAIAP community. Specifically, its negative perception in society, especially when compared to PDA with straight couples, and how this can have a negative impact on the LGBTAIAP community.

Jan. 27th, 7:00pm in UUW302

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CULTURAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

MALIK Fraternity welcomes you to their Steel & Velvet Fitness competition. Sign up now for your shot at the $200 grand

prize! The competition also features Male and

Female sections

Sign Up/Info Meeting DatesFeb. 5th at 5PM and Feb. 8th in

UU 202 at 8PM

Binghamton Masti, BUs only Bollywood Fusion dance team is hosting tryouts! They accept dancers of all experience levels so do not be afraid to show them what you got.

Tryouts are February 7th, at 6:00PM in UU102

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CULTURAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

The highly anticipated TAMASHA 2016 is back and loaded with great

performances! Featuring dance forms from

bollywood film dance to Mixed Moda. TAMASHA

2016 will also be hosting the renowned Cornell

Bhangra dance team of Americas Got Talent

fame! Plus the musical stylings of

Mr. Supa Hot Masala, a nod to not a rapper

Supa Hot Fire!

Do not miss out, tickets are on sale for $8

Doors open at 6:30, curtains open at 7:00PM

in the Watters Theatre Feb. 6

Are you an international student that loves Binghamton? The Student

ambassador program is full of students just like you. Come to our GIM to learn how you can reach out to international

students and share your story!

Feb 8 @ 6pm in UU102

If you are an international student with a passion for Binghamton University, then the International Ambassador GIM is the place to be! Join them to learn how you can be that student who helped another student just like you find a home in Binghamton

February 8th at 6:00PM in UU 102

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RPU, SHADES & Keshet are proud to offer free & confidential HIV Testing.

Feel free to stop byWed, Feb. 10th from

11:30- 4:30PM at UUW 301 & 302

S.H.I.N.E will be hosting their GIM Feb. 15th, UU 202 at 8PM

CULTURAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

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Contact UsLocation: Library South G 549

Phone: (607) 777-4472 Fax: (607)777-2373

Email: mrc@binghamton.edu

Staff

Nicole Sirju-Johnson, Ph.D - Director njohnson@binghamton.edu

Tanyah Barnes, M.Ed - Interim MRC Assistant Director tbarnes@binghamton.edu

Michele Hayes - Secretary mhayes@binghamton.edu

Connect with the Multicultural Resource Center!

facebook.com/MRCBinghamton

@mrcbu

@BinghamtonMRC

Binghamton MRC

@BinghamtonMRC

mrc.binghamton.edu