Multiculturalism will take center stage Wednesday as slam poets, cultural dances, alternative rockers and drag performers gather at Woodworth Complex to "Espresso" themselves.
For those looking to express themselves, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m Wednesday, Woodworth Complex and the Multicultural Advisors will be hosting "Espresso Yourself: A Multicultural Open-Mic Night." The event will promote diversity around campus with cultural performances and introduce students to the Multicultural Advising program. Complimentary Starbucks coffee and pastries will be provided.
"Multiculturalism is more important in college," multicultural advisor Alison Scribailo said. "Many students are from small towns, so they don't realize how open the world is. They can explore things they haven't before; discover new things."
All are encouraged to come express who they are through music, dance and words, event coordinator and multicultural adviser Damon Clevenger said.
"Come out and let your voice be heard," he said. "Show us what makes you, you."
A duet comprised of sophomores Ian Shannon and Shekinah Brown plans to perform one of Shannon's original alternative rock songs. Playing guitar for the past 10 years has been a way Shannon has expressed himself multiculturally, he said.
"I grew up loving music," Shannon said. "As far as American culture, it follows pop culture. The words I write pick apart pop culture versus society."
Besides sponsoring an evening of free entertainment for students, event coordinators for "Espresso Yourself" aim to advocate the importance of self-discovery. Multicultural advisors such as Clevenger and Scribailo, promote diversity among students living in the residence halls.
Part of the Office of Housing and Residence Life, they report to hall directors and MA supervisors.
They not only must be positive role models in the residence halls, but also help plan events to encourage diversity through both their specific halls and campus-wide events like "Espresso Yourself."
While he is not directly associated with the event, David Taylor, assistant director of the Multicultural Center, said he emphasized the importance of diversity across the college campus and applauded the multicultural advisers' efforts.
The mission of the Multicultural Center is to support and advance the university's commitment to cultural diversity.
"Take advantage of opportunities the four years you're in college. Now is the best time to step outside your comfort zone," Taylor said. "Once you're done with school, you go out into a diverse work place and a diverse world."
Multicultural advisers also facilitate multiculturalism, diversity and social justice, but leading students down the road to self-discovery is the first step, Scribailo said.
"Many students are trying to find themselves, so this can help them see ideas they haven't before," she said.
Amanda Junk contributed to this story.
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