BMI hosts Black History Month Open Mic & celebration on Feb. 22

Cincinnati State Black Male Initiative (BMI) student organization invites all members of the campus community to an Open Mic Spoken Word event– with a food truck and vendor displays, too– on Wednesday, February 22 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the ATLC First Floor Lounge.

Speakers will be able to sign up at the event for a 4-minute timeslot between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Any form of spoken word presentation is welcomed but speakers must avoid “outlandish profanity.”

BMI Advisor Bryan Dell said the Open Mic event is not a competition. “It’s an opportunity for people to be heard and express their thoughts or feelings to a broader audience,” he said.

At the end of the event (1:50 p.m.), names of all participants will be entered in a drawing and five of the speakers will receive a $10 gift card. Speakers don’t have to be present at the time of the drawing to have a chance for a gift card.

In addition to the Open Mic, Smokin Dew’s Food Truck will be on campus near the ATLC courtyard from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. selling their Smokin Tokin BBQ and other tasty treats.

Also, several vendors will be offering their wares and services, including Paparazzi Jewelry, Not Forgotten Art (prints and paintings), Stay Humble brand Athletic Wear, Larry’s Cum’See healing lotion products, and Brianna’s Dress for Success.

For more information about the event, please contact BMI member Johnathan Zona at (561) 768-6422, club advisor Bryan Dell (513-569-4762), or club advisor Brian Hooten (513-569-1643).