April 10, 2024
N’dia Battle '25
Submitted by N'dia Battle
“Black on the Block is an important event that the CCEI puts on yearly because it helps me feel represented and appreciated as a Black Student. It makes me feel as though they appreciate Black students enough to have us in mind when hosting events such as these. Every year since my freshman year it has been something that I look forward to. Since my freshman year the Black student population has since expanded and most students that I connect with in my cultural clubs are intrigued by the event and show a great interest in signing up. Not only does it provide deeper cultural insight for us but it is also a great way for students to just get off campus for the day and have a good time. Our highest population of Black students are in the younger classes and most of them don’t have cars so having that transportation and luxury to go on a retreat is so refreshing. An additional perk is that it’s a way to get off campus while feeling a sense of belonging and cultural appreciation. During Black on the Block we get a chance to look at the creations from small Black-owned businesses and it’s a reminder of our people’s greatness and talents. Everyone comes together to appreciate each other’s styles, fashion and talents. It is also a chance for students to get a hot meal and soul food which is refreshing when being so far away from home. Being amongst other Black people on such a large scale in this fashion makes me have a greater appreciation and love for my culture and I hope this is something that other Black students and people from other cultures can experience even after I graduate.”