OU senior DeAnne Whitfield, programming chair of Association of Black Students (ABS), directed the tribute, which was co-sponsored by the African-American Celebration Month Committee and ABS.

The theme was “Reflecting truth through the understanding of our historical inspirations.” 

“A Tribute to Neo Soul” included performances, poetry and food.

Dominique Rickett, a junior education major, sang “Motherless Child,” a Negro spiritual.

“We need more representation of minorities at OU, more than just Black History Month,” Rickett said.

Rickett also said that the Black History Month events presented throughout February could use some improved publicity.

“We need to prompt events earlier,” Rickett said. “More people need to attend. If this were a dance it would be packed.”

Jasmine Rudolf, a junior nursing major agreed. “Many are missing out on a valuable meaningful opportunity to learn and promote change.”

Junior health science major Tavera Saunders also felt that diversity should be a focus for future events.

“We are holding these events and the only people showing look like me,” said Saunders, alluding to her skin color. “We need interaction with other races, simple conversation takes you a long way.”

Rickett was not the only student to perform in the tribute. Ashley Charlton, a junior human resources development major, performed “The Demise of the Black Woman.”

“I encourage all to heighten self-esteem and step out of the paradigm and embrace diversity,” Charlton said.

Nathan Brown, a junior human resources development major performed “My Heroes” and “Ride for Me” with Cooley High School senior Isaiah Shaw. 

One of the greatest crowd receptions came for Monte Reed, a junior sociology major, who sang “Da Real.” 

OU alumni Karen Stacy Ballard and Michael Williams-El both performed poetry at the event while DJ No-A-Fex, another OU alumnus, also performed.

“Cultural awareness is a key component of our global environment,” said Ballard. “Learn more about others; it’s not just black history, its history.” 

“Not everything appeals to everyone. Take an honest look at yourself and if you see prejudice, work on that,” said Williams-El, a 2005 graduate in journalism. “When you don’t see yourself producing culture communally, you feel demeaning shame.” 

DJ No-A-Fex offered further insight. “Advertisers connect deeper values with product, over 300 channels and not many portray blacks. We have come a long way but subconscious desires are being influenced, this is a way to not lose touch with our heritage.”  

L’Renee closed the ceremony accompanied by a paradisiacal band.

“Music and black history have always been married,” said Marcus Hunter, one of L’Renee’s band members. “Brothers pioneered music. Do your homework on music you have no choice but to look into black history.”

Whitfield encourages students to get involved in the preparation for future events like this one by contacting the African-American Celebration Month Committee and the ABS.

“More people should help,” Whitfield said. “It’s easy to talk but it takes action.”