Umoja (a Kiswahili word meaning unity) is a learning community dedicated to African Americans and other students' academic success, personal growth, and self-actualization. African and African American intellectual, cultural, and spiritual gifts inspire all Umoja values and practices. Join the Umoja community this semester for some exciting and informative events. All events are open to the public.
 

Umoja Porch Talks
 

Sharing stories and traditions, passing down knowledge, and simply spending time together as a community has been a long-standing tradition throughout history. One place where this has often taken place is on the porch. The porch provides a space that is not quite inside the home, yet not fully outside either. It's a middle ground that allows for casual conversations with neighbors as they walk by. This creates a warm and welcoming environment that fosters a greater sense of community and connectedness.

By participating in AVC Umoja's Porch Talks, we can all contribute to building a stronger community together. Umoja Porch Talks are student-led conversations that create connection and build on community knowledge. Join us for Umoja Porch Talks every 4th Wednesday at the Umoja Village!

Every 4th Wednesday
August 30  •  September 27  •  October 25  •  November 29
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
The Village
 

Movies in Color
 

Join us for our film series highlighting Black filmmakers and actors. We're excited to showcase the work of talented artists and creators who have made a significant impact on the film industry. Come and experience the power of storytelling through the lens of these groundbreaking filmmakers and actors. We can't wait to see you there!

Every 3rd Thursday
September 21  •  October 19  •  November 16
1 pm - 3 pm
The Village (ME 100)
 

The InkWell
 

Join us at The InkWell, a supportive space for writers and artists to connect and build community. Here, storytellers are empowered to craft authentic narratives that affirm their unique experiences. Whether you prefer poetry, spoken word, performance, non-fiction, or fiction writing, choose your medium of storytelling and become a part of our community of like-minded creatives. Discover your voice and share your story with us at The InkWell.

Every 2nd Wednesday
September 13  •  October 11  •  November 8
3 pm - 4 pm
The Village
 

Critical Clapback
 

We invite you to join our discussion group that explores major themes discussed by the Student Equity Speaker Series speakers. Our goal is to gain a deeper understanding of their ideas and their application to current societal issues. We look forward to engaging with you and learning from your perspectives.

September 25  •  October 10  •  November 6
2 pm - 3 pm
The Village (ME 100)
 

Student Equity Speaker Series
 

Rosa Clemente
‘Can’t Stop Our Blackness – Black and Latinx Narrative and Resisting Erasure’
September 22
3 pm - 4 pm
Choral Room (FA3-162)
RSVP Now 

Professor Angela Davis
‘Higher Education and Social Justice’ 
October 5
3 pm - 4:45 pm
Performing Arts Center
RSVP Now