Amidst the pandemic, the African and Caribbean Students’ Association (ACSA) has worked to transfer its annual Culture Show to an online platform.
Viewers can expect a combination of singing and dancing from students and
non-students at the show, which will be hosted Feb. 28.
“We made an extra effort to encourage those interested in sharing their talents with us, regardless of their cultural background,” Abigail Yee Ken, ACSA co-president wrote in a statement to The Journal.
Spotlighting in the upcoming culture show include ACSA Dance Team, Queen’s Momentum Vocal, a high school student from our mentorship program, as well as additional performances.
The Culture Show centers on a theme of Unity and Resilience, according to Yee Ken, with an aim of encouraging conversations around injustice and the ability to rise to the occasion despite personal challenges.
“All the events of 2020 and its predecessors sparked and need for us to bring attention to the strength of our community,” Yee Ken wrote.
“We like to think of ourselves as a home away from home for students belonging to minority groups or those having trouble finding a safe space in the Queen’s community. Our extended family is considered to be all those belonging to the African and Caribbean diaspora in Canada.”
Regarding the transition online, Yee Ken recognized the challenges of virtual connection with Association members and the greater Queen’s community.
Yee Ken said the change resulted in a lot of interest expressed by potential performers without much follow through.
“Regardless, we are excited to showcase the talents that were sent in. Logistics behind the show itself required lots of meetings and late-night practices but it was definitely worth it,” Yee Ken said.
“One of our strengths as a club is our ability to bond with those in our community, creating an open and safe space for those that want or need it.”
Yee Ken acknowledged the tough transition to a virtual platform but said the ACSA Executive Team was incredibly supportive in event organization.
Yee Ken said information was shared at a faster rate than usual, owing to the increased activity on social media by prospective performers and attendees.
While a remote platform allowed for more flexibility for meeting organization and discussion, Yee Ken said it was more difficult to connect with others, especially new members, without in-person introductions.
“We will be making an extra effort in our upcoming events to encourage more interactions,” Yee Ken wrote.
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