The next guest of the Distinguished Speaker Series has faced many adversities in his life.
Yet, he has been a firm believer of doing something to overcome his challenges.
Actor, Activist, Artist, and Former Athlete Terry Crews will virtually speak to the UTRGV campus community at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 8 for the 17th season of D-S- S.
Crews’ visit comes as the campus and country begin observations of Black History Month, a time of remembering the achievements and history of Black Americans.
Director of Student Activities Cindy Mata-Vasquez says she hopes Crews’ visit will bring perspective and motivation.
“He has his own story to tell how he came up from being an athlete to now being an actor and activist,” Mata-Vasquez says.
Mata-Vasquez says when UTRGV received confirmation Crews would speak, the Feb. 8 date was chosen as a kickoff to Black History Month events for campus.
Sociology Associate Professor Arlett Lomeli will be one of the moderators for the event.
In response to a question on cultural reflection, Lomeli agrees that the mutual understanding of being a minority will resonate.
“It might not be the same level but we’re definitely looking at the realities of history repeating itself and more so in different ways,” Lomeli says.
Lomeli adds it’s best to have these discussions to think about how people can move forward together.
Sociology Lecturer Billy Ulibarri will also moderate alongside Lomeli.
He says although Crews is not from the Valley, he does have shared experiences.
“It’s always great to have an outsider’s perspective, just to get a sense of reminding us what we think is important and what are the big issues that we should be paying attention to,” Ulibarri says.
Visit VLink for information and how to register.
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