Marshall University continues to celebrate black history month with “Speak the Truth – Open Mic Night.” The event welcomes poets, rappers, dancers and singers to come out and showcase their talents in talking about black history. The event is set for 6 p.m. Feb. 20 in the Shawkey Dining Room of the Memorial Student Center.

“Although we are celebrating black history month, we want people of different races to attend as well as African Americans,” said Marcus Williams, director of Open Mic Night. “Artists who attend must incorporate black history into their performances, hence this being black history month.”

Junior Kayla Johnson said she is excited to perform some of her own work.

“I attend open mic nights back at home in the city I’m from which is Louisiana,” Johnson said. “I was stoked that Marshall was starting a open mic night. I write poems all the time when I’m bored so now that I have a opportunity to showcase my skills is awesome.”

Another student, freshman Jazmine Smart, said she thinks the event is a good place for people to express themselves.

“I look at this as a great opportunity for people who have a hard time expressing themselves to step out their comfort zones and show their hidden talents because these are the ways they truly express themselves,” Smart said. “Through poetry, through dance, through rapping.”

Williams said anyone is welcome to showcase their knowledge of black history through the art they want to perform. Sign up slots are available up until the day of the open mic night.

Taevion Kinsey can be contacted at [email protected].