NPHC Celebrates Diversity by hosting "Silent March"
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By: Desmond Harris
09/28/16
Statesboro,Ga
On Saturday Georgia Southern University's National Pan-Hellenic Council sponsored a silent march for diversity across campus.
Students, faculty, and leaders of various greek and minority organizations gathered at the Russell Union Rotunda on Saturday to express their discontent with injustices against minorities and ethnic groups. What made this event so unique is that participants were required to march silently. Each participant was provided a face mask to wear during the event. Students were also asked to wear business casual attire. “We asked everyone to dress is business casual which means we meant business,” said Edison Smith, Correspondence Secretary for Alpha Phi Alpha Incorporated; Xi Tau Chapter.
The march was approximately a mile long and was conducted from the Russell Union Rotunda to the Recreational Activity Center by way of the pedestrian. University Police provided escorts for incoming traffic on Akins Boulevard.
Tyauna Ellison, member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated; Lambda Kappa Chapter, felt that this was a fresh approach to keeping the community aware of social injustices and institutionalized racism minorities face on a daily basis. “I know a lot of people who saw or came up to me after the march and asked what is this about,” she stated.
The march concluded at the Recreational Activity Center pavilion, where various leaders of minority groups on campus spoke about their personal struggles being a minority and the importance of unity among races. Olyvia Davis, Graduate Advisor for the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, felt that events like these were essential for unity in the community. “I think it does create unity because it forces people from different backgrounds to come to one place,” Davis states.
Smith believes this is the beginning of a new chapter for unity at Georgia Southern, “ I think we still have a long way to go when it comes to creating unity, but I think this is the start of creating unity,” he states.
*Source list emailed*
Blaqshion performs a emotional routine highlighting the struggle of minorities
NPHC leaders link arms and start marching towards the Recreational Activity Center
Students march in silence to bring attention to the injustices against minorities.
Mother and son show support for diversity by participating in silent march.
Participants arrive to the Recreational Activity Center
Students state what they are marched for at the conclusion.
Students marched for various reasons such as love, change and equality.
Marching for peace was a common response by participants.
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