A Caf dinner on Feb. 23 will continue the portrayal of the theme representing this year’s university-wide celebration of Black History Month, “Painting a Picture of Black Beauty.”

Events dedicated to the theme began on Feb. 7 with “Voices from the African Diaspora: Within the Biola Community.” In addition, Rev. Mark Whitlock led a racial reconciliation chapel on Feb. 16. Also, the Black Student Association held panel discussions on prevalent cultural issues. Another panel will be held on Feb. 28, in which presentations on the research and perspectives of African-American scholars will be highlighted.

Promoting sense of belonging

In contrast to previous years, BSA set out to make this year notably different by representing the various areas of black culture, according to senior Ralph Miley, president of BSA.

“By painting this picture of black beauty we are trying to show the positive contributions that folks have made to the church and society at large,” said BSA adviser Donald Gordon. “The whole point of this event is for students to feel like they belong and to give them a voice.”

“Inclusivity is in Miley’s DNA,” Gordon said, “and that characteristic is largely reflected in the dinner taking place on Thursday.”

Menu of authentic recipes

The menu will contain authentic Nigerian, Caribbean, African-American and Ethiopian recipes, reflecting four facets of the African diaspora, according to Gordon. The BSA leadership board and their advisor partnered with the chef and the Caf to create meals that would represent the authenticity of each region.

“It was neat because [the chef and staff] really gave us full control of the menu and asked what we wanted to see represented,” Gordon said.

Students from each region were given the opportunity to represent their heritage by providing authentic recipes to include in the dinner.

“We didn’t just go on Google and search ‘Ethiopian food,’’’ Miley said. “The most encouraging part of planning this event was being able to get students’ feedback, using their recipes and seeing how they wanted the food represented.”

Adding to the celebration of diversity, the dinner will also feature a variety of entertainment during the dinner service. The entertainment line-up is set to feature a Caribbean band, Puerto Rican congas and students reading various facts on each region and reciting poems that reflect the various stages of black heritage.

Exposing community to diversity

Holding the event in a common place like the Caf is also central to the authenticity of the event, so that students feel a sense of belonging. However, this inclusion is not just extended to the black community. The overall goal has been to expose the overall Biola community to such diversity.

“This really is a beautiful thing,” Miley said. “We try to make it as enjoyable as possible but ultimately God’s hand is over it.”

The celebratory dinner provides a platform for Biola to recognize and pay tribute to Black History Month by acknowledging the unique heritage of the black community and the positive contributions they have made on society as a whole. The dinner provides a way for Biola, as a student body, to honor black heritage.

BSA is a club that averages about 30 members and is responsible for not only planning their own club events, but also planning and executing events that cater to the entire student body of more than 6,000 students.