The legacy of Bob Marley and his contributions to Caribbean music will be honored Friday during the Bob Marley Music Festival, sponsored by Ohio University's Multicultural Programs and Lindley Cultural Center.
In years past, the Office of Multicultural Programs has focused on explaining the significance of Black History Month during February, but it has decided to shift its focus this year.
I would hope that by the year 2005 we all understand the significance of Black History Month
said Corrine Carthell, assistant director of multicultural programs. This year we chose a different form of programming -to celebrate Bob Marley and his impact on Caribbean music and the African-American community and culture.
The event, slated to take place from 6-8 p.m. Friday in Baker Center Ballroom, will showcase Nuhu, a reggae band of Jamaicans relocated to Cleveland, along with a performance by dance student Sarah Cook and student poetry readings. Select vendors from Athens and around Ohio also will be selling Jamaican-inspired clothing, food and other various items.
OU's Global Learning Community will be selling pictures the members took in Thailand to benefit the tsunami victims, while Multicultural Programming will be collecting donations for flood victims in Guyana.
Winsome Chunnu, an OU graduate student, said she came up with the idea for a Bob Marley Festival last quarter. The Office of Multicultural Programs coordinated the event during the past three months.
Bob Marley is popular across college campuses she said. When I went to the bagel shop Uptown to put up a flier
the guys in there were so excited
saying 'Oh my God
we heard about (the event) and we were so happy for it.' The reaction has just been tremendous.
Marley merchandise is available at various locations around Athens, such as Import House, 68 N. Court St., and Banana Road, 12 S. Court St.
While shopping at Import House, OU junior Jordan Vincent said Marley has broad appeal, whether or not people relate to his political stance or to his Rastafarian beliefs.
When you listen to his music
it makes you feel good
Vincent said. I put it on when I'm having a bad day.
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