The University of Wyoming African American Studies Program has changed its name to African American & Diaspora Studies. The department will celebrate this name change with a traditional African naming ceremony Friday, Oct. 16, from noon-1:30 p.m. in the Wyoming Union Family Room.
The ceremony will feature the Wyoming African Student Association drummers and spoken word/poetry performed by the Association of Black Student Leaders. It will also include the ceremonial pouring of libations, food and the unveiling of the program's new mission statement and new department logo.
"Naming ceremonies are customary in all parts of Africa," says Tracey Patton, director of African American and Diaspora Studies. "Although naming ceremonies are typically celebrated when a baby is given his or her official name, in our case, we are having a naming ceremony to officially celebrate the our program's name change."
Patton says the new name is more representative of the courses the program offers.
"The name indicates a focus on experiences in the African Diaspora, not solely a focus on African Americans, but what is happening and what has happened to black people worldwide," she says.
Posted on Thursday, October 08, 2009