On March 1, the Harding African Students Association hosted “A Night in Africa,” which included a fashion show and scenarios of the story of the reconciliation of South Africa.
Participants said that “A Night in Africa’s” purpose was to connect the African community at Harding with the other students. The fashion show had the members of the HASA walk across the Administration Auditorium stage wearing colorful robes and bright African dresses while the stomp choreographies gave the audience a closer view of the African traditional dances.
Faculty sponsor Usen Akpanudo said HASA’s mission is to create awareness about Africa. According to Akpanudo, the African students tend to fade away into Harding’s background, so the association wants to build a community that can provide a reminder of home.
The show was presented by Bruce McMullen from South Africa and Sisan McNeil from Nigeria. During the night, the two called South Africa “The Rainbow Nation,” which refers to the country’s post-apartheid status of peace. South African Paul Marè, whose two daughters and son go to Harding, gave a speech about the present and future of South Africa. According to Marè, South Africa is a first world country in a third world country.
“It was so special to get to celebrate African culture with others who love it, and it brought back so many memories of my time in Zambia,” senior Abigail Partlow said. “The dancing was so fun and made me think of evenings laughing and dancing with dear friends. The poem about the apartheid was especially powerful, particularly after having studied about Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo at HIZ. The message of hope, unity and reconciliation was clear and very joyful.”
“We want to show our culture and especially a different view of our culture,” HASA president and senior Paul Aiyedun said. “When the African students come to Harding they do not know anyone. We want to be a family for who comes. We welcome whoever loves Africa to get together and serve. The Bisons for Christ project we are getting ready for is the next occasion we have.”
HASA puts together a show every spring. Last year’s theme was West Africa, and this year was South Africa. The members of HASA have not yet decided the theme for next year, but said they will keep exploring every angle of their country to present it to the Harding community.
