Poetry Jam

Jam to a beat of a different drum

By: Shannon Davis

Posted: 10/10/06

The Cultural Awareness Committee of the Student Union hosted a poetry jam Oct. 5 at 9 p.m. in the Pirate Underground. Any form of spoken word to share thoughts about one's own culture or others were welcomed.

The emcee of this event was Michael Caple, Jr., a junior double majoring in health service management and economics. He is also the chairperson for the Cultural Awareness Committee.

This is the second semester for the poetry jam, and the planning of another is in the works for next semester.

According to Michael Caple, "Everybody has a creative side in them. It's a platform for them to express themselves, their cultures and others." He went on to say that this event, "allows people to think outside of the box."

Over 30 people attended for the purpose of opening minds and encouraging awareness of the various cultures at ECU.

Marquice Jones, a graphic design and advertising alum recited, "My Soul Supplication." He stood on the stage and with great passion, stated, "Man makes opinions because we all think in time," and in reference to his higher power, "Let you be my foundation to whatever I'm going through."

Paris Kee, a senior exercise physiology major, performed, "My Soles Are Bound to the Ground." She said that she is "living for the Lord, I use my gift of poetry to glorify him." These two are among the many who expressed their religious cultural values in the form of poetic art to the audience.

Anyone was allowed to express their minds so long as they did not bash other cultures. Toward the end of the night, members of the audience began holding discussions amongst themselves about poverty, inequality and other culturally related aspects of society.

The Cultural Awareness Committee is hosting "Imitation of Life" on Oct. 9 at the Hendrix Theatre at 8 p.m. The purpose of this event is to educate the faculty and students through film.

There is also an upcoming annual event on Oct. 24 called October Fest at Mendenhall brickyard, representing German tradition with food, giveaways and music.

The Cultural Awareness Committee meetings are every Monday at 6 p.m. in room 212 of Mendenhall and anyone is welcome to attend.

This writer can be contacted at pulse@theeastcarolinian.com.