Legendary actress to visit UT Sarah Patterson - Staff Writer Monday, September 24, 2007 issue Click here to print Ruby Dee, an award-winning actress, author, producer and activist, will address the importance of social responsibility Monday in Alumni Memorial Building’s Cox Auditorium. The Black Cultural Programming Committee will host “An Evening with Ruby Dee” at 7 p.m.
as part of the committee’s Legends Lecture Series. Andre Phinnessee, chairman of the BCPC and a senior in industrial engineering, said the series will supply students with a positive view of prominent black figures. “We wanted to get a program together with people who have been through things, who are involved in activism, film, authorship and music,” Phinnessee said.
Ruby Dee was chosen for her influence in the film industry and theatrical works, as well as her pioneering work for black women, Phinnessee said. With Dee’s appearance, the BCPC hopes to continue its reputation for showcasing prominent figures. “(Dee) has been through everything from dealing with the pressures of society and coming up from that time.
(Dee) is an African-American great from the 20th century who can help shape our culture in the 21st century,” Phinnessee said. The BCPC aims to increase the cultural awareness of blacks and their achievements; in addition, it supports the social development of black students at UT. The Legends Lecture Series was created in 2005, with Maya Angelou as its first guest.
Harry Belafonte, a musician, actor and activist, was featured the following year. Phinnessee said the series offers students an opportunity to interact with those who have influenced their culture. In order to increase the series’ exposure, the BCPC partnered with other campus organizations such as the Department of Africana Studies, the Knoxville News Sentinel, the Delta Sigma Theta sorority and the Women’s Coordinating Council.
News RSS