A LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS

02/05/19

Today marks the 24th birthday of Trayvon Martin—Trayvon’s death is a heart-wrenching event within black history, but TSU decided to focus on the joy of blackness. Texas Southern’s University Program Council (UPC) decided to celebrate Martin’s life by hosting an open mic in the student center, where they showcased black-owned businesses and artists. Students paid homage and respect to Martin by wearing hoodies, dancing, and exchanging laughter. Various spoken word performers, music artists, and dancers got the opportunity to display their talents to uplift the spirit of the student body.

I was able to join in the festivities and chose to support a black-owned business from Dallas called Gold Rock Clothing. The owner, A.T., gifted me with a sphinx hoodie and I paired it with a velvet two-toned skirt that I got for Christmas. I included my black power fist earrings to serve as a statement piece, along with my favorite fishnet socks.

My night was truly blacktastic and it made me love my HBCU more. It’s rare to see events that highlight victims of hate crimes in a positive way because the circumstances are always grim. My day started off in a very melancholy mode, but it ended with optimism after attending this. Thank you to UPC for throwing this event and bringing some joy to our campus!

Sincerely,

Janaya.

Hoodie: Gold Rock Clothing

Skirt: Shein

Socks: Forever 21

Earrings: Beauty supply