1

FROM THE EDITORIAL STAFF

Welcome to the Multicultural Resource Center!
We are so excited to be back! Welcome all new students, new
readers and returning contributors. Spring 2016 promises to
bring a wealth of exciting new initiatives across campus and will
be no different for the Multicultural Resource Center (MRC) and
our Culture Connects Newsletter.
This spring MRC will host events for Lunar New Year, Black
History, Womens History and Asian Heritage months, cosponsor a number of Culture and Food events with Dining
Services by Sodexo, co-promote the Bearcats Dont Standby
Hate Speech Prevention Messaging with REACH, MHOPE and the
RedZone Committee, more diversity recruitment events with
Undergraduate Admissions such as our annual Letter Writing
Campaign, host new pop-up events across campus, and begin
launching the Binghamton University Chapter of the National
Society of Leadership and Success, a leadership development
program for cultural student leaders. If you are interested
in taking part connect with Tanyah Barnes at tbarnes@
binghamton.edu.
The newsletter will continue to expanded as we infuse more
reader submissions such as articles, op-ed stories, poetry,
and photography; we look forward to your submissions! The
newsletter team has been expanded to include undergraduate
and graduate student staff. If you are interested in joining the
team, send a message to mrc@binghamton.edu with subject
joining the Culture Connects Team.

Sincerely,
Your Culture Connects Team

Meet the Culture

Connects Team
Samantha Gillette

MRC Program Assistant

Jonathan Alvizuri
Undergraduate Marketing Intern

Wendy Yang
Undergraduate Marketing Intern

Priyanka Das
Undergraduate Marketing Intern

Yeqing Liu

Undergraduate Marketing Intern

Gabrielle Cruz

Undergraduate Marketing Intern

Yikai Zhang

Undergraduate Marketing Intern

Dominique Russell

Undergraduate Marketing Intern

Tanyah Barnes, M.Ed

Advising Editor
For questions, comments,
advertising or submitting content,
contact the team at
mrc@binghamton.edu

About Culture Connects

Culture Connects is a newsletter designed to provide the campus with up-to-date information
about cultural events, programs and opportunities available to Binghamton University Community.
If you would like to receive an electronic copy of the newsletter every month, pleases email
the Culture Connects Team with subject subscribe to mrc@binghamton.edu.
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MRC NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

MRC Upcoming Events

MRC would like you to save the date for the following upcoming events:
Lunar New Year Celebration
Mon, Feb 8th, 5-8pm, Hinman Dining Hall
Letter Writing Campaign
Wed, Feb 10th, 10-3pm, Old Union Hall
Wed, Feb 17th,11-5pm, UU325
Mardi Gras Celebration
Thur, Feb 18th, 7-8pm, Hunter Hall
Sponsored by Hunter RAs
MRC Student Leaders Meeting
Tue, Feb 23rd, 7-8pm, UU 111
Black History Month Speaker
Wed, Feb 24th, 6-7pm, Old Union Hall
Sponsored by Black Student Union
BHM Movie Night & Discussion
Wed, Feb 17th, 5-10pm, Undergrounds
University Day at Oakdale Mall
Sat, Feb 20th, 11am-3pm, Oakdale Mall
Culture at Chenango
Tue, Feb 16th, 11:15am-3:30am, Chenango Room
MRC Bi-Weekly Diversity Talk Show
Begins in February
National Society of Leadership and
Success
Orientation: Tue, Feb.9th, 5:30-6:45pm
Speaker: Tue, Feb.9th, 7-8pm
All meetings in (UU 120)

Subscribe to the MRC Events

Calender at mrc.binghamton.edu
to stay up-to-date on all MRC Events
throughout the year!
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MRC NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

MRC SPRING 16 TEAM
Meet the fall MRC student intern and volunteer
team!

PROGRAM ASSISTANTS
Samantha Gillette
Jose Artiles
GRADUATE INTERNS
Anji Liu
Mengdai Sun
Wenting Zhou
Zelin Wang

PROGRAMMING ASSISTANT INTERNS

Di Yi (Maggie) Wang
Fuzayl Noraliev
Hyojung Choi
Peony Cheng
Sarah Boniche
Seung-Nyun Kim

MARKETING INTERNS
Dominique E Russel
Gabriella A Cruz
Jonathan Alvizuri
Priyanka Das
Wendy Yang
Yeqing Liu
Yikai Zhang

CULTURE CONNECTORS
Bae (Mary) Yi
Fatoumata Kane
Jason Lee
Karen Liu
Prince Grant
Raven Gomez
Sarah Samson
Yanlu Zhao
Ziyue Zhang
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Culture Connects
Grant Recipients
The MRC is proud to
offer a Culture Connects
grant for Cultural Student
Organizations. The grant
is designed to provide
cultural student groups
funding to conduct
programs to educate the
campus community.
A recipient will be
selected every month
and announced right here
on the Culture Connects
newsletter!
For more information
go to:
http://www.
binghamton.edu/
multicultural-resourcecenter/programs/
grants-funding.html

MRC NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

DO YOU WANT TO BE ON A TV TALK SHOW?

THEN JOIN THE MRCS DIVERSITY TALK SHOW!

The Multicultural Resource Center is looking for students to participate in its new
Diversity Talk Show. The show will be produced by BTV6 and will include several
panelists who will discus various topics during the program. If youre interested
contact Mengchen Huang.

Contact:
MRC Program Coordinator: Mengchen Huang
Email: mhuang@binghamton.edu
Phone Number: 607-777-6071

Interested in advertising in the MRC Culture

Connects Newsletter?
Increase your business among Binghamton University students, faculty and staff. The MRC
is home for more than 100 cultural student organizations on campus. With more than 1,700
students subscribed to our Monthly Newsletter, consider us a great marketing tool for reaching
the university community. Binghamton Universitys student of color and International student
populations are increasing. Make your business more visible among students.
For more information, please contact the Culture Connects Newsletter Team at mrc@
binghamton.edu or 607-777-4472.

MEET OUR PROGRAM ASSISTANTS

Samantha Gillette
Born

and raised in Brooklyn, Samantha Gillette has grown

to love the Upstate area, especially the Binghamton Campus
Community. Samantha completed her undergraduate degree
at Binghamton University in Psychology in May 2015, and
is currently working to complete her Master of Business
Administration with a concentration in marketing, expected
graduation date May 2016. Samantha served as a Graduate
Marketing Intern to the MRC in the fall and is excited to
return to the MRC as a Program Assistant this semester.
She loves working for the MRC because it allows her not
only to learn about different cultures, but to experience the
traditions, history and fun of different cultures as well. When
she gradauates she will forever hold the memories of her
Binghamton University and the MRC close to her heart.

Jose Artiles
Jose

Artiles, is thrilled to join the MRC this semester as

a program assistant. Jose graduated from Binghamton
University in 2013 with a degree in Human Development. Jose
currently is a graduate student in the College of Community
and Public Affairs (CCPA). In May he will be completing his
Masters Degree in Public Administration. His goal is to be able
make a difference within his community. Coming from the
Bronx, NY there are not many programs available to those
who want to make a difference in the community. I hope
to be that change which will help improve the conditions of
those in my community.

LUNAR NEW YEAR

Lunar New Year is the first day of the calendar whose months are coordinated by the cycles

of the moon. To most Asian countries such as China, Korea and Japan, Lunar New Year is the
most important festival of the year. The date of Lunar New Year in American calendar varies
every year. In 2014 the Lunar New Year fell on January 31st, in 2015 the Lunar New Year fell
on February 19th and this year the Lunar New Year, Year
of Monkey, will be celebrated on February 8th.
Food is the most important part of Lunar New Year.
People gather together on New years eve for family a
reunion dinner. In China, dumplings and fish are the most
common food in the reunion dinner. Japanese typically
have buckwheat noodles, a symbol of longevity. Lastly
Koreans eat rice cake soup and beef short rib for the new
year. Every dish has a symbolic meaning in relation to
its culture generally following themes of good luck and
prosperity in the coming year.
During the celebration of Chinese New Year, elderly people
give out lucky money in a red envelopes to the younger
generation. Giving lucky money during Chinese New Year is considered lucky for both the
giver and the receiver. Those who give will invite the flow
of money in during the entire year and symbolize that
the family luck is also passed on to the children and the
unmarried teens.
In conclusion, Lunar New Year is a significant part of Asian
Culture with traditions passed down from generation
to generation. To those who celebate may you have a
wonderful holiday and best wishes for the upcoming year!


By Yeqing Liu

Undergraduate Marketing Intern

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INTRODUCING NSLS
What is NSLS?
NSLS stands for the National Society of Leadership and Success also know

as Sigma Alpha Pi. The organization is made up of students who have shown
leadership ability and have taken the steps necessary to set them on a path
for success. The NSLS provides a whole host of benefits to its members via
speaker broadcasts, success coaches, and access to exclusive scholarships
and awards.
On February 9th, the NSLS Binghamton University chapter had their first
new members orientation. Students learned the steps of the leadership
development program, schedule of events, and mingled amongst their peers
with whom they will be undergoing the induction process with. Activities for
the event helped students to think about their leadership goals and enhance their communication
skills. NSLS also osted its first Speaker Broadast featuring Emmy award winning television newscaster
for ABC news and anchor for Nightline, Juju Chang. The remaining broadcasts are listed below.
The success of the orientation leaves a great mark for the NSLS at Binghamton who has just recently
began a chapter on campus. The society is the nations largest leadership honor society and the
new Binghamton chapter is the latest to join the other 507 already established chapters nationwide,
comprised of 577,705 members. The society uses a step-by-step program during its induction
process to develop leadership skills, provide a way for self-reflection and expose to students its
nationwide network.
The NSLS membership, which is lifelong, provides students with access to a myriad of benefits
ranging from exclusive scholarships, on campus events, and an online job bank. Eligible students
are often nominated by a supervisor, professor or other faculty member. Society membership has
shown a track record for success. Around 89% of society members start careers in fields of their
choice and 83% of those students directly attribute their success to their involvement in the NSLS
program. Having just begun their chapter on the Binghamton University campus and given the
NSLSs impressive track record, we look forward to seeing the extent of their impact on the Bearcat
community.

DID YOU KNOW: VALENTINES DAY 101

Valentines Day is approaching and its time to step up your game and

show your loved ones how much you truly care again! But as popular as
this holiday is, what do you really know about Valentines Day?
1. Did you know that Valentine is known to be a legendary hero

that helped performed marriages for young lovers when marriage

was outlawed for young men in Rome by Emperor Claudius II?
2.

Did you know that during the Victorian times, signing a Valentines
Day card was considered to be bad luck?

3.

Did you know that during the 1800s, physicians would advise their
patients to eat chocolate to heal for their lost love?

4.

Did you know wearing your heart on your sleeve is more than just a
phrase? It references the middle ages when young men and women
drew names to see who their valentines would be. After that they
would pin the names on their sleeve for one week.

5. Did you know that 15% of U.S women sends flowers to themselves
on Valentines Day?
6.

Did you know that about 150 million Valentines Day cards are
exchanged each year?

7.

Did you know that $1 billion worth of chocolate is purchased in the

U.S on Valentines Day?

8.

9.

Did you know that teachers receive the most valentines?

Did you know that during Valentines Day, in Japan, women are the
ones expected to give gifts and chocolate to men?

10. Did you know that I love you in German is Ich Liebe Dich?
By Wendy Yang
Undergraduate Marketing Intern

SUPER BOWL SUNDAY

Coming

to Binghamton University opened me

to a plethora of new experiences, expected and
unexpected. I came to college knowing that while I
would (finally) have a bed that I didnt have to share
with my sibling, I would have to manage work without
parental reminders every five minutes. Coming from
a high school in New York City with over 700 people
in my grade alone, however, I didnt expect to find
myself in culture shock with every event and gathering
I went to. By my second semester freshman year, I
had made friends in this university from literally all
around the world and I found myself growing more
and more from the different lives that surrounded me.
One such time I was acutely aware of this fiesta of cultures was when I watched the Super Bowl.
The Super Bowl is popular because of a lot of reasons, said my friend Angelo Hurley, a junior
majoring in linguistics. The game is really exciting and competitive, and is one of the most
competitive matchups in the world. Somehow, I feel like I added something onto my AsianAmerican resume by finally participating in one of the most modern American traditions.
Last year, Angelo and I were invited to a friends house to watch this championship game.
Before that, I had never seen a Super Bowl; whats more, I didnt even know how people even
played football. Growing up, the only sports my Indian-Chinese family ever watched was cricket
or badminton. I shook off my frostbitten scarf and jacket that day as I stepped into my friends
apartment in Susquehanna, not knowing what to expect from this American pseudo-holiday. I
was met with boxes of pizza and buffalo wings, a loud television and even louder spectators.
Was this what Super Bowl Sunday was for the typical American? Why is this part of American
Culture? I wondered.
American culture has developed itself mainly into an image projected onto the world as one that
embraces sports, good beer, and a strong sense of patriotism, Angelo said. I certainly believe
the Super Bowl is an important part of American Culture. And he wouldnt alone in thinking
that, I realized as I saw advertisements for Super Bowl Sunday-- from pizza deals to Coca Cola
commercials that show a group of friends donning their favorite teams jerseys, the Super Bowl
seemed to be an annual gathering site for marketing, partying, and heated yelling and cheering
in front of the television. The Super Bowl has a presence in many other aspects besides just
being a football game. Super Bowl parties are very common among American households, and
it is also the most watched event in American television almost every year without fail, Angelo
said. The best two teams in Americas most popular sport face off for ultimate glory, the best
commercials are put on to fill in the gaps, and a really amazing halftime show is put on for all
the viewers to see. Its huge presence in American culture also makes it hard to avoid and NOT
watch, even if you arent a big football fan.

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SUPER BOWL SUNDAY

Angelo was definitely right about that. Being the second-largest day of food consumption in the
country (after Thanksgiving) and one of the most-watched broadcasts in all of U.S. television
history, the Super Bowl felt like something I had been missing out on for most of my life; as
if there was a second Christmas that I was just out of the loop. At the very least, I could take
comfort in the fact that around 52 percent of the people who watch the Super Bowl arent
football fans. And why wouldnt they watch the Super Bowl? The hype is contagious, spreading
as fast as the rate the pizza is eaten and the beer is chugged. And in college, I had no real
reason not to join my friends at their Super Bowl party. And Im glad; it was an experience I
probably wont ever forget.

A Fans Perspective
Any predictions for this year?

Both defenses are some of the strongest in the NFL, and both
teams have very well-known and skilled quarterbacks leading
their teams. I think its going to be a very competitive and
entertaining game, so long as everyone decides to show up
to the game.

What team are you rooting for?

I personally want the Denver Broncos to win, but anythings

possible in this game.

Who are your favorite players on your team?

Who do you feel carries the team?

Peyton Manning is one of my most favorite NFL players ever.

Ive watched him play many games over the years, and I
certainly hope he wins one last Lombardi trophy before he
(likely) retires. The Broncos defense certainly carries the team
though, but hopefully the offense can make a great showing
as well!

Angelo Hurley is a junior

majoring in linguistics.
Besides being a general
football lover, he is a loyal
supporter of his hometown
team, the Buffalo Bills.

By Priyanka Das
Undergraduate Marketing Intern
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CULTURE CHATS
Culture Chats is a series of interviews conducted by students featuring Binghamton University

faculty, staff, alumni and the like! This series will help you get to know diverse professionals
who currently work at or have attended Binghamton. You will have an opportunity to get to
know the person, gain advice or learn about unique and interesting pathways to careers.

Culture Chat with Tanyah Barnes, Interim Assistant Director and Diversity
Fellow at Binghamton University
This month, I was fortunate enough to interview Tanyah
Barnes, a the new assistant director for MRC who achieved
her Master of Education at University of South Florida in
2009 before entering Binghamton University to work in
multiple leadership positions on campus. Tanyah Barnes is
a huge supporter of diversity, inclusivity, and unification.
However, in her perspective, these words take on more
meaning than we know. Today we will learn more about
who Tanyah is, what brought her here to us today, and how
she is involved with us on campus.
Here is what she had to say:
Me: Whats your name, current occupation and where do you live?
Tanyah: My name is Tanyah Barnes, I am currently Interim Assistant Director of Multicultural
Resource Center and Diversity Fellow for the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at
Binghamton University. I am from Tampa, Florida but I currently live in Endwell, New York!
Me: What is your role at Binghamton University?
Tanyah: Currently, I work in the MRC, serve as Advisor of Sigma Alpha Pi which is the
National Society of Leadership and Success Chapter at Binghamton University, advise
PULSE, serve on the board of the Professional Staff Senate and as second vice president for
the Faculty and Staff of Color Association. In addition to my work in the MRC, I also serve
dual role within Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion temporarily while Mengchen is
on leave. Outside of campus I serve on the Board of Directors for YWCA of Binghamton
and Broome County, as a volunteer for United Way and on the Executive Board for Broome
County Urban League Young Professionals.
Me: How did you come to Binghamton? How did you first get involved with Binghamton
University?
Tanyah: After receiving my masters degree in College Student Affairs at University of South
Florida in 2009, I came to Binghamton University as a Resident Hall Director in College in the
Woods. I worked in residential life for 4 years where I also served as Residential Director
of the Educational Opportunity Programs Binghamton Enrichment Program, affectionately
known as BEP. After my time in Residential Life I worked for Communications and Marketing
and the Graduate School and then moved into the diversity fellow role within the Office of
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
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CULTURE CHATS
Me: Can you share one of your fondest memories about working or studying at Binghamton
University?
Tanyah: I have had many wonderful experiences while working at Binghamton. One of
my fondest memories is teaching the Peer Counselor Leadership Development course and
serving as Residential Coordinator with Karima Legette and Josue Quinones, we had the
chance to work with and train some amazing peer counselors. Additionally, I thoroughly
enjoyed helping to create the first annual Alumni of Color Reunion this past fall.
Me: If you were an ice cream, what flavor would you be?
Tanyah: If I was an ice cream, I would be something deliciously interesting- an odd
combination that does not seem like it would go together but turns out wonderful like Mint
Ice cream with strawberry syrup, white chocolate shavings (though I am not a huge fan of
chocolate), and graham cracker swirls. Interesting but still very yummy!
Me: What professional advice would you tell a student who is thinking about becoming a
diversity fellow as well?
Tanyah: I would advise the student to be open-minded, flexible, and to O.K with trying
new things that might take you on very unexpected paths, in life. Not everything goes as
planned, you might have to carve out your own path and things could turn out even better
than expected. I did not graduate college envisioning myself working as a diversity fellow, I
did not even know the role existed. But I enjoy my job because I get to contribute to campus
life in a variety of new and interesting ways- I get paid to learn and try new things- who
wouldnt want to do that!
Me: Who has inspired you in your life and why?
Tanyah: My grandmother. She was a servant leader, and taught me to face challenges head
on and to create my own path in life. She was a community activists that never accepted no
no for an answer, she faught tirelessly for the underserved in her community.
Me: What does diversity/ culture mean to you? What is your personal philosophy on diversity,
equity, and inclusion?
Tanyah: Diversity means, to immediately feel accepted wherever you are, regardless of your
identities or personal background. To me, these concepts should be symbiotic. A community
that is truly inclusive will innately be diverse because multiple identities, backgrounds,
perspectives will be present- if the voice of any part/whole group is glaringly missing the
community is not inclusive.
Me: If you had the power, what is one thing you would change about Binghamton University?
Tanyah: If I had the power, I would reshape how the Student Association operates so that
there is a stronger connection between the association and campus professionals. There is
wonderful brain trust amongst our campus faculty and staff that could truly benefit our students
both in- and outside the classroom. I would love to erase some of the perceived barriers
on advising and collaboration, I would want to unify us together to be a connected whole.
By Wendy Yang
Undergraduate Marketing Intern
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MINORITY OWNED LOCAL RESOURCES

Grocery Stores
Asian Food Store
Euro Foods
European Market
Hang Phat Market
Uncles Asian Market
Nannerys Grocery Store
L & R West Indian American
Grocery Bakery
DiRenzo Brothers Bakery

200 Main St., Binghamton

9 Glenwood Ave., Binghamton
20 Downs Ave., Binghamton
278 Main St., Binghamton
200 Grand Ave., Johnson City
184 Clinton St., Binghamton
10 Lake Ave., Binghamton

(607)729-9988
(607)729-5905
(607)766-9509
(607)797-4087
(607)777-9440
(607)724-4905
(607)217-7225

1552 Henry Street, Binghamton

(607)724-1444

Barbershops & Salons

Blazin Cuts Barbershop
Envy You Salon & Boutique
Envy You Salon & Boutique (Men)
Faces Barbershop
Five Star Variety Barbershop
Grand Masters Barbershop
Jus Hair Boutique & Salon
Miracles
New York Styles
New York Styles II
Platinum Cuts Barbershop
Shunas Hair Studio

291 Conklin Ave., Binghamton

125 Main St., Binghamton
125 Main St., Binghamton
122 Washington Ave., Endicott
200 Oak Hill Ave., Endicott
192 Main St., Binghamton
192 Main St., Binghamton
157 Main St., Binghamton
280 Main St., Johnson City
203 Odell Ave, Endicott
35 Pine St., Binghamton
175 Clinton St., Binghamton

(607)771-6786
(607)772-8187
(607)238-7551
(607)422-1010
(607)786-0568
(347)853-4099
(607)296-4322
(607)771-6566
(607)729-8390
(607)349-7344
(607)621-1332
(607)237-0206

Religious Establishments
AME

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Trinity AME Zion Church

203 Oak St., Binghamton

(607)724-4772

Calvary Baptist Church

466 Chenango St., Binghamton

(607)722-1867

MINORITY OWNED LOCAL RESOURCES

Cornerstone Community Church

911 East Main St., Endicott

(607)239-4127

First Baptist Church of Johnson City

1321 Reynolds Rd., Johnson City

(607)238-7795

Korean Baptist Chuirch of Binghamton

901 Murray Hill Rd., Vestal

(607)729-3562

360 Clinton St., Binghamton

(607)797-2122

Newman House for Roman Catholic Students

400 Murray Hill Rd., Vestal

(607)798-7202

St. Patricks Church

9 Leroy St., Binghamton

(607)722-1060

Islamic Awareness Center

74 Conklin Ave., Binghamton

(607)723-2572

Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier

161 Grand Ave., Johnson City

(607)729-7265

Beth David Synagogue

39 Riverside Dr., Binghamton

(607)722-1793

Chabad Center for Jewish Student Life

420 Murray Hill Rd., Vestal

(607)797-0015

Temple Concord Reform

9 Riverside Dr., Binghamton

(607)723-7355

Temple Israel

4737 Deerfield Pl., Vestal

(607)723-7461

Grace Tabernacle Church

98 Glenwood Ave., Binghamton

(607)729-3626

Greater Faith & Deliverance Ministries

219 Oak St., Binghamton

(607)821-1828

Calvarys Love

1315 Reynolds Rd., Johnson City

(607)797-3757

First Assembly of God

254 Washington St., Binghamton

(607)723-3218

Mt. Sinai Church of God in Christ

126 S. Washington St., Binghamton

(607)723-2361

New Heights Ministries Church

17 Front St., Binghamton

(607)723-2361

River of Life Cogic

28 Frederick St., Binghamton

(607)621-4592

Salvation Temple Church

103 Susquehanna St., Binghamton

(607)724-3906

Byzantine Catholic - Eastern Rite

Holy Spirit Byzantine Catholic

Catholic

Islam

Judaism

Non-Denominational

Pentecostal

CULTURAL ORGANIZATION LISTING

Cultural Organizations
African Student Organization
American Kurdish Council
Arabic Association
Asian Outlook
Asian Student Union
Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting
Bert Mitchell Minorities in Management Organizations
Binghamton Association of Mixed Students

ASO
AA
AO
ASU
ALPFA
BMMMO
BAMS
15

CULTURAL ORGANIZATION LISTING

Binghamton
Binghamton
Binghamton
Binghamton
Binghamton

Bhangra
China Care Club
University Gospel Choir
University Japanese Association
University Korean Undergraduate Student Association

Black Dance Repertoire

Black Latino Asian Caucasian Keeping Unity
Black Student Union
Caribbean Student Association
Charles Drew Minority Pre-Health Society
Chinascope
Chinese American Student Union
Chinese Students and Scholars Association
Diverse Cultural Xcellence
Givology at Binghamton University
Graduate African Student Organization
Haitian Student Association
Hellenic Cultural Society
Hillel/Jewish Student Union
Hong Kong Exchange Square
Indian Graduate Student Organization
Indian International Student Union
International Connection
International Flag Dancers
Irish Student Union
Italian Club
Jewish Community Center

BCCC
BUJA
BUKUSA
BDR
BLACK Unity
BSU
CSA

CASU
CSSA
DCX
GASO
HaSA
HCS
Hillel
HKES
IGSO
IISU
IC
IFD

JUMP Nation (Juvenile Urban Multicultural Program)

Korean American Student Association
Korean Network in Culture and Time
Ladies Owning Their Curls, Kinks, & Straights
Latin American Student Union
MASTI
Men of Color Scholastic Society
Muslim Student Association

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People

National Society of Black Engineers
Nukporfe (African Dance Group)
Philippine-American League
Polish Student Association
16

KASA
KONECT
LOCKS
LASU
MCS2
MSA

NAACP
NSBE
PAL

CULTURAL ORGANIZATION LISTING

Powerful United Ladies Striving to Elevate
PULSE
Quimbamba Latin Dance Team
SHADES
Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers
SHPE
Society of Women Engineers
SWE
Spanish Club
Sul Poong
Taiwanese American Student Coalition
TASC
Taiwanese Student Association
Thurgood Marshall Pre-Law Society
Thai Cultural Awareness Club
Tomorrows Hope in North Korea
THiNK
Turkish Culture Association
TURCA
Turkish Student Association
Vietnamese Student Association
VSA
WE SPEAK BU (Women, Empower, Support, Educate, Advocate, and Know at BU)
Womens Student Union
WSU
X-Factr Step Team

LGBTQ Clubs/Resources
SHADES
Rainbow Pride Union
Equality Project
Barabing.org

RPU

Lesbian and Gay Family Building Project

Greek Organizations
Asian Greek Council

AGC

Delta Kappa Delta Sorority

Iota Nu Delta Fraternity
Kappa Phi Lambda Sorority
Nu Alpha Phi Fraternity
Sigma Psi Zeta Sorority
Pi Delta Psi Fraternity

17

CULTURAL ORGANIZATION LISTING

Latino Greek Council

LGC

Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity

Omega Phi Beta Sorority
Sigma Lambda Gamma Sorority
Sigma Lambda Upsilon Sorority
Lambda Theta Alpha Sorority

Chi Upsilon Sigma

Multicultural Greek Council

MGC

MALIK Fraternity
alpha Kappa Delta Phi Sorority

MALIK

Lambda Sigma Upsilon Fraternity

Sigma Iota Alpha
Delta Epsilon Psi Fraternity
Sigma Omicron Pi

National Pan-Hellenic Council

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity

NPHC

Religious Groups
Binghamton Korean Catholic Community
Binghamton Sikh Association
Brothers and Sisters in Christ
Campus Bible Fellowship
Chinese Christian Fellowship
Hillel/Jewish Student Union
Hindu Student Council
Indian Christian Fellowship
Korean American Baptist Student Organization
Korean American Christian Fellowship
Muslim Student Association
Spirit in the Box
Three Angles Message Christian Club
Zionist Organization

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BKCC
BSA
BASIC
CBF
CCF
Hillel
HSC
ICF
KABSO
KACF
MSA
3AM

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

As our campus gears up to celebrate Black History Month it is necessary to reflect on black

history in our great nation. As I think back in time one question comes to mind: How far
have we come since the abolition of slavery and the civil rights movement? The reason this
question lingers in my mind is due to the recent events that have occurred regarding people
of color and the police. Lately it seems as though we have taken 10 steps back in the valiant
fight for equality. But before I jump to conclusions, lets observe some facts. It has been 151
years since the abolition of slavery, 61 years since the Montgomery Bus Boycott, 52 years
since the enactment of the Civil Rights Act, and 51 years since the Selma to Montgomery
March. One can conclude that, it has been some time since the height of racism in America,
and that we have made considerable advancements in reaching equality.
However, the last four years have shown that there is still a racial rift in America. Trayvon Martin
is a name that echoed throughout every household in America in 2012. The untimely death of
this Florida teen received national attention and forced a nation to address the dreaded and
often avoided race debate. Next, we fast-forward to Ferguson Missouri in 2014, where Michael
Brown, a Ferguson teen was shot and killed by a police officer. As a non-guilty verdict was
reached, Ferguson turned to flames as lootings and protests overwhelmed the city and the
nation. In 2014, another mans life was taken while in police custody: Eric Garner. The death of
this Staten Island father added fuel to an already blazing fire. Garner was killed in choke-hold
while shouting I cant breathe. This sparked several protests throughout the city as well as
a national I cant breathe campaign. Now we move into 2015, where Freddie Gray also was
fatally injured while in police custody. Baltimore sprung into action as a city decided enough
was enough. The Baltimore riots were broad-casted on every major news station and images of
a city divided flooded into households all across the U.S. Curfews were established throughout
the city, and Baltimore went up in flames. Peaceful protests transitioned into violent riots.

BBBaltimore in the 1960s during

the Civil Rights Movement

Baltimore in 2015 during protests for

Freddie Grey

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH

So where does all of this anger and violence leave us? Have we changed as a people since
the times of great racism and segregation? I spoke to Dr. Lois Einhorn, a professor here at
Binghamton University, to gain insight on this question. Dr. Einhorn specializes in courses that
focus on social action as well as compassion and non-violence. Dr. Einhorn stated I grew up
hearing the term melting pot all the time and hearing how America is a melting pot and we
must be this way, as I have taught I have found melting pots within each individual person.
I meet students who are a product of those who have bonded together with others outside
of their cultural norms, and that to me shows progress. However there is more that needs to
be done to continue to progress and the first thing is to for our education system to educate
students on peace and non-violence because that will help us understand hate and learn to
react to that hate in a more powerful way than violence or else we will not be able to combat
it.

This progress is shown daily, our schools are integrated; the KKK although it may still exist has
immensely lost its influence on society. We live in a world instantly connected by the click of
a button and due to this we are able to spread awareness of the injustice that exists. People
are mobilizing much quicker in response to racial injustices. The people who are protesting
in solidarity of these causes are more diverse than they were in 1964. Since the devastating
deaths of those mentioned above in police custody, wearable body cameras have been in
demand from law enforcement agencies all over the U.S. In Chicago, the site of a more recent
death while in police custody, the Mayor has required that every police officer be well trained
in the usage of the tazer. So yes, we have changed as a nation and have made great progress.
Within the last four years our generation has added to black history by joining together with
people from all walks of life to support the equal treatment of others. But, it goes without
saying that there is still so much more that we need to accomplish and we must continue to
move forward in the fight for equality.

If there is no struggle, there is no progress. Frederick Douglass

By Gabrielle Cruz,
Undergraduate Marketing Intern
Sources: http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/27/us/baltimore-riots-timeline/
http://www.ibtimes.com/baltimore-riots-2015-freddie-gray-slammed-head-police-van-causing-fatal-injury-report-1904371
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2014/11/25/us/ferguson-photos.html
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2014/08/13/us/ferguson-missouri-town-under-siege-after-police-shooting.html?_r=0

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH EVENTS

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH EVENTS

Come get a taste of

Afro-fusion Cuisine
in honor of Black
History Month!

In honor of the All Black Lives

Matter theme for this years BHM
Celebrations, MRC is hosting
a throw back movie night
featuring Higher Learning
directed by John Singleton.
Come watch and discuss!

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH EVENTS

BSU Proudly presents their keynote speaker,
Janet Mock. She is a writer, transgender
rights activist, and former staff editor of
People magazines website.
Help us welcome her Feb. 24 at 6PM
in Old Union Hall

BSU along with the Binghamton

University Gospel Choir present Sunday
Best! This Gospel Choir Showcase will
feature BUs finest gospel talent and a
spirited time.
Feb 21st Old Union Hall, 3PM

Kickoff the your Friday night with a Poetry

Jam! Featuring the artistry of Alysia
Harris & Jasmine Nans.
Feb 19th Rockefeller Center, 6PM

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CULTURAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

Dragon Night 2016

Kick off the Chinese New Year right with
Dragon Night 2016. The night will be
littered with performances, delicious
food, and raffle prizes! Do not miss
out. Get your tickets early, tabling
will take place Feb. 2nd, 12:00PM 4:00PM
Tickets are $8 for early birds and $10 at
the door.
Doors open at 6:30PM on Feb. 6th,
7:00pm to 9:00pm in Mandela Room

SHADES invites you to their weekly

first weekly GB Meeting. The topic of
discussion will be about PDA in the
LGBTAIAP community. Specifically,
its negative perception in society,
especially when compared to
PDA with straight couples, and
how this can have a negative
impact on the LGBTAIAP community.
Jan. 27th, 7:00pm in UUW302

The Latin American and Caribbean Area Studies (LACAS) Program invites undergrads to give their
proposals for research presentations at the 3rd Biennial Undergraduate Research Conference held
Saturday, march 12. All submissions on topics related to Latin America, the Caribbean, and people of
Latin American and Caribbean disaporas are welcome.
To enter, submit a brief (around 200 word) abstract of your 15 minute conference presentation with
name, paper title, major and college/university to LACASConference2016@gmail.com
The new, extended deadline for submissions is February 15, 2016!

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CULTURAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

Binghamton Masti, BUs only

Bollywood Fusion dance
team is hosting tryouts!
They accept dancers of all
experience levels so do
not be afraid to show
them what you got.
Tryouts are February
7th, at 6:00PM in UU102

MALIK Fraternity welcomes you

to their Steel & Velvet Fitness
competition. Sign up now for
your shot at the $200 grand
prize! The competition
also features Male and
Female sections
Sign Up/Info Meeting Dates
Feb. 5th at 5PM and Feb. 8th in
UU 202 at 8PM

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CULTURAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

The highly anticipated

TAMASHA 2016 is back
and loaded with great
performances! Featuring
dance forms from
bollywood film dance to
Mixed Moda. TAMASHA
2016 will also be hosting
the renowned Cornell
Bhangra dance team of
Americas Got Talent
fame! Plus the
musical stylings of
Mr. Supa Hot Masala,
a nod to not a rapper
Supa Hot Fire!
Do not miss out, tickets
are on sale for $8
Doors open at 6:30,
curtains open at 7:00PM
in the Watters Theatre
Feb. 6

Are you an international student that

loves Binghamton? The Student
ambassador program is full of students
just like you. Come to our GIM to learn
how you can reach out to international
students and share your story!
Feb 8 @ 6pm in UU102

If you are an international

student with a passion for
Binghamton University,
then the International
Ambassador GIM is
the place to be! Join
them to learn how
you can be that
student who helped
another student just
like you find a home in
Binghamton
February 8th at 6:00PM
in UU 102

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CULTURAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

S.H.I.N.E will be hosting

their GIM Feb. 15th,
UU 202 at 8PM

RPU, SHADES & Keshet

are proud to offer free &
confidential HIV Testing.
Feel free to stop by
Wed, Feb. 10th from
11:30- 4:30PM at UUW
301 & 302

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Contact Us
Location:Library South G 549
Phone:(607) 777-4472
Fax:(607)777-2373
Email:mrc@binghamton.edu

Staff
Nicole Sirju-Johnson, Ph.D - Director
njohnson@binghamton.edu
Tanyah Barnes, M.Ed - Interim MRC Assistant Director
tbarnes@binghamton.edu
Michele Hayes - Secretary
mhayes@binghamton.edu

Connect with the Multicultural Resource Center!

facebook.com/MRCBinghamton
@mrcbu
@BinghamtonMRC
Binghamton MRC
@BinghamtonMRC
mrc.binghamton.edu
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