On Saturday, September 6, the Bucknell community came together to celebrate the opening ceremony of the Griot Institute for the Study of Black Life and Culture. From 12 to 2 p.m., the Terrace Room in the Elaine Langone Center (ELC) was alive with music, dance, food, and community spirit.
The ceremony began with a heartfelt welcome from Professor Cymone Fourshey, Director of the Griot Institute, who expressed gratitude to community partners, students, and guests for their ongoing support of Griot’s mission. Her words set the tone for an afternoon dedicated to honoring history, culture, and connection.
The program was graced by Griot’s longtime partners, the Soul in Motion African Dance and Drum Ensemble, whose vibrant performances brought the beauty of African traditions to life. They were joined by the Taratibu Youth Association, who gave a moving performance of Gambu, a traditional dance rich in rhythm and history. Their artistry highlighted the strength of intergenerational cultural exchange. With each beat of the drum and each graceful movement, the performers reminded everyone of the power of rhythm to bridge communities. One of the most remarkable aspects of the celebration was the sense of community. Not only did Bucknell students and faculty attend, but so did local residents who came to celebrate alongside them. The event space featured talented vendors like Melodie Carter-Shaw, who showcased her exquisite crafts and jewelry, and Renee’s Kitchen, which filled the hall with the irresistible aroma of mouthwatering barbecue.
Student organizations also played a key role in the celebration. Members of the Bucknell African Caribbean Student Association (BACSA) and the Black Student Union (BSU) joined in to uplift the spirit of togetherness.
The afternoon was filled with exciting raffle giveaways, the Griot Institute delighted attendees with prizes including books and exclusive Griot merchandise. Families came with children, who were seen smiling, dancing, and soaking up the joyful atmosphere.The highlight of the day came at the end of the ceremony, when the performers invited everyone onto the stage to learn a group dance. At that moment, distinctions between performer and audience disappeared. Everyone moved together, celebrating not only African traditions but also the shared joy of community.
This year, the Griot Institute celebrates the theme: “Youth from Africa and the Diasporas: Knowers, Innovators, Visionaries, and Everyday People.” The opening ceremony reflected this theme beautifully, highlighting the brilliance and creativity of young people while grounding the celebration in the deep connections between Bucknell, its surrounding community, and the wider African and African Diaspora traditions.
The event was more than an opening, it was an invitation. An invitation to celebrate, to learn, to connect, and to move together in rhythm with cultures that continue to inspire and sustain.