Though Black History is undoubtedly made on a daily basis, Black History Month is a time for celebration, reflection, education, introspection, decolonization and world-building. In recognition of the countless and continual cultural attributions made by Black artists, scholars and writers around the world, the second edition of Voices is a gathering of community that will celebrate Blackness through the power of words. Following the lead of many of our beloved and celebrated ancestors, such as Rita Dove, Gwendolyn Brooks, Nikki Giovanni, Audre Lorde, James Baldwin, Toni Morrison, Sonia Sanchez and so many more, Voices II: Mirrors and Windows will display brilliantly heartfelt storytelling, led by the Black student population here at CCA.

In an open mic format, performers will be citing their own prose and poetry as well as works from artists that have deeply influenced them. Though performances at Voices II: Mirrors and Windows will be prioritized for Black students, crowd participation and attendance from the entire CCA community is not only welcomed, but highly encouraged.

Given the current social, political and cultural climate, there is no better time than now to listen to and uplift Black voices. Listening to the thoughts and chronicles of folks who hail from various cultural and social backgrounds can lead to groundbreaking community work, as history has shown us. Voices II: Mirrors and Windows will aim to not only shed light on many of the experiences that Black students here at CCA face in the academic world, but in greater realms outside of campus and across the globe.

Please email Isaiah Diaz-Mays at diazmays@cca.edu if you'd like to reserve a performative spot in advance.