Black History Month kicks off at ECC
By Larissa Chinwah
lchinwah@dailyherald.com
From dance troupes to trivia challenges, Elgin Community College will host a number of events to educate and entertain as part of its Black History Month celebrations.
All events are free and open to the public. More information is available from the Student Life Office.
Ÿ On Monday, Feb. 6, the Chicago dance troupe BAM!, will perform the best in tap and percussive dance. The resident performing and teaching ensemble that is part of the Chicago Human Rhythm Project has an extensive repertory that includes the classics, contemporary jazz, tap and experimental rhythmic expression like body drumming.
The ensemble’s presentation is titled, “We All Got Rhythm,” which demonstrates that rhythm is an innate form of human expression found in every culture throughout the world.
BAM! will perform at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. in the Advanced Technology Center Theater.
If you’re interested in learning a few steps from dance styles popular in the black community like hip-hop, stepping, slide and other styles, instructors are available every hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, in the Student Resource Center Jobe Lounge.
Ÿ Dancing not your thing? The college is also screening the film adaptation of the novel “For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf.” The film portrays issues affecting women, especially women of color. The film will be screened at noon Thursday, Feb. 9, in the ATC auditorium. The first 20 guests will receive a copy of the book.
This is a taste of the events taking place in the second week of February. A slew of other events are scheduled throughout the month.
Kindergarten readiness: Is your child starting kindergarten in the fall? Bring him or her to the Gail Borden Public Library from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4. Elgin Area District U-46 teachers will be conducting free developmental screenings for children from birth to 5 years of age during the Black History Family Festival. The screening will help parents determine if their child is ready for kindergarten. U-46 is working with community partners to increase awareness about what preschool-aged children should know before entering kindergarten. For information about the screening or for additional information about school readiness, call the Early Learners Education Department at (847) 888-5000, ext. 6970.Blood drive: Streamwood High School will host a blood drive from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8. Community members are invited to donate. For details, call Joan at (630) 213-5500, ext. 4989.