The African Student Culture Organization hopes to attract people from across campus to their meetings.

African culture for all

By: Sam Kribbs

Posted: 9/8/08

The African Student Culture Organization (A.S.C.O.) held its first meeting on Sept. 4 in Royall Hall.

The mission statement of the organization contains four key points: assist in the transition of African students into UMKC, inform and educate the campus about issues in Africa, organize academic and cultural events, promote awareness of African culture and cooperate with other campus-based organizations.

The organization fights the assumption it is an exclusive rather than an inclusive organization.

"This is an organization open to all, yes, we help assimilate," said Treasurer Mwai Malindi. "But we want to see people [at our meetings and events] from all over."

The meeting started with introductions and an unusual icebreaker: "What is the craziest thing you have heard about Africa?"

Later, the officers discussed the overview for the year. There was also a presentation about famous African's such as Nelson Mandela, former president of South Africa, and Freddy Adu, Ugandan-born American soccer star.

A.S.C.O. is still a relatively young organization and funding is an issue. It is actively searching for fundraising ideas and ways to promote the organization around campus and the community.

A focus of the meeting was the importance of education in America and around the world.

President Jalaiya Ogunniyi said, "No one can take your education away from you."

Those in attendance had a wide array of majors from pre-Med to business with a mix of upper and lower classmen.

Many of the students were "African Diaspora" students who have come to America for education, but intend to return to their home nation. They are here to better themselves, America and their home nation and continent.

A.S.C.O. sponsors movie nights/socials, a forum with The African American Student Union dealing with issues and controversies and works with other African organizations around campus.

Ogunniyi also spoke of how important it is for those eligible to vote.

"A voteless nation is a hopeless nation," she said.

Active membership is $10 per semester. There are several benefits to membership including discounts on events, a t-shirt and volunteer hours for your resume.

The next meeting is on Oct. 16, at 6:30 p.m. and refreshments are provided.

skribbs@unews.com