The University News

Issue date: 1/28/08 Section: News

Media Credit: Jazmin Douglas

Media Credit: Jazmin Douglas

Sounds of an old Southern Baptist church resonated through Pierson Auditorium as Dorothy Perry sang for the tables of guests chowing down at the breakfast buffet. The high-spirited performance would be one of many to highlight this year's 15th Annual Freedom Breakfast put on by The African American Student Union (TAASU).

"It represents TAASU," said Tony Westbrook, TAASU Education Chair. "[It] represents everything TAASU has accomplished, and everything TAASU will accomplish in the Future."

The keynote speaker, Dr. Joseph Seabrooks, Jr., involved the crowd in his celebration-themed address, using a call-and-response type of speech.

"This is," Seabrooks said.

"A celebration," the audience answered.

Seabrooks' speech reflected on Dr. King's life and how he drew from his life experiences to reach success. The Joseph Seabrooks Leadership Award was awarded to Pamela Shane-Dillard.

The Freedom Breakfast hosted a large turnout of people from across the metro area to celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Greetings by Chancellor Guy Bailey and vice-president of TAASU, Tylena Martin, were followed by three dynamic tribute performances by UMKC students and faculty. The first was an inspirational mime dance by Lilli Spears, freshman, pre-business; followed by a jaw-dropping monologue by Jon Lewis, lecturer; and an inspiring performance of "Hero" by NiKeisha Fortenberry, junior, general studies.

Speakers at the Freedom Breakfast also addressed the state bill countering Affirmative Action, the Missouri Civil Rights Initiative (MoCRI), and how it would affect minorities and women if passed.

The Freedom Breakfast is a yearly celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his civil rights legacy. For more information about TAASU and its events, visit their Web site at http://studo.umkc.edu/taasu/.

-Jazmin Douglas

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