The Office of Multicultural Affairs is hosting Harambee tonight in the Pete Maravich Assembly Center to serve as a welcome back for students.
Harambee is an African tradition that originated in Kenya as a way to improve communities. Over the years, the tradition has became a part of the University.
Curtis Parker Jr., Office of Multicultural Affairs coordinator, said Harambee is a good way to encourage students to volunteer.
“[Harambee] lets students know how important it is to give back to the community,” said Parker.
On the agenda this year is a service fair, an MLK Dance Ensemble, Ebony Renaissance Choir and a unity step exhibition.
This year’s event will feature keynote speaker Omar Tyree. Tyree is a New York Times best-selling author and the 2001 NAACP Image Award recipient.
Habitat For Humanity with a few other service-oriented organizations will be in attendance to encourage more students to participate in community service.
The event is expected to draw 2,000 people, according to event officials.
Jason Kelly, economics senior and chair of the Black Cultural Committee, said he was happy to be a part of continuing the tradition of Harambee. “Harambee is a part of LSU,” said Kelly. “It lets people know this is an important African-American event.”
The event is sponsored by the University Union Program Council, the African-Amercian Cultural Center and the Office of Multicultural Affairs. The event starts with the service fair at 7 p.m.
Also on the agenda are speeches from Vice Provost Dr. Katrice Albert and Student Government President Chris Odinet.
Following Harambee on Friday is another African tradition of unity, Umoja.
While Harambee focuses on community involvement, Umoja promotes Univesrity involvement.
Umoja will start at 2 p.m. in front of the African American Cultural Center. The event will include free food and entertainment.
Parker said admission is free to both events and encourages everyone to attend.