ASA hosts Caribbean Night
By Crystal Abrell
Distribution Editor
The University of Indianapolis African Student Association hosted “Caribbean Night: Celebrating the African Diaspora” in the Schwitzer Student Center Atrium on Oct. 26.
Caribbean Night honored African cultures by hosting a dance competition and serving traditional Caribbean Food.
Participants consisted of UIndy students competing in groups and as individuals. The UIndy ASA invited Purdue and IUPUI to join the dance competition and festivities. There were an estimated 60 individuals in attendance. According to ASA Vice President Shamiso Muradzikwa, the competition was highly anticipated.
“We were really excited about the dance competition and expected it to be a large success,” Muradzikwa said.
The night began with a welcome address, followed by an opening performance by the UIndy ASA and finished with the dance competition. An authentic Caribbean meal was served. According to Muradzikwa, the night and activities were well thought out.
“This event was very well organized and planned,” Muradzikwa said. “The ASA and others worked very hard together to make sure it was a success, and hopefully everyone will see the fruits of our labor.”
The only rule for the dance competition was that the music was required to be Caribbean or in some way influenced by African cultures associated with Caribbean lifestyle and culture. The participants danced to reggae, dancehall and other Caribbean-influenced music.
First place was awarded to IUPUI student Precious McKenzie. UIndy students Amanda Williams and Amelia Payne placed second and third, respectively. First, second and third place winners received Simon Mall gift cards.
Jelaine James, a native of Jamaica and alumnus of the UIndy Physical Therapy School, judged the competition. Also Kyle Culman, a dance instructor who specializes in Salsa, helped judge the dance competition. DJ Casbar, a disk jocky from Broad Ripple who specializes in Island music, provided music for the competition.
The ASA was created two years ago. The organization frequently hosts open-mic nights, poetry readings, dance events, reggae dance halls and soccer games. ASA President Minette Valentine said new members are always welcome.
“The purpose of our association is to expose outside people of our culture. So it is never too late to join,” Valentine said. “You do not have to be African-American to feel welcome in our group.”
