Since the first class moved into Afrikan Heritage House in 1972, it has been a place of black cultural expression and tradition. This gallery is a small representation of life inside this inspirational house.
a-house
The largest Program House on south campus is Lord-Saunders, also known as Afrikan Heritage House, A-House, and The House. This contemporary building overlooking South Bowl is a designated safe space for students of the African Diaspora and other students interested in learning about Africana culture. A-House is the center of activity for students of all levels who want to heighten their understanding of cultures, traditions, and issues among African, African American, and Afrikan Caribbean societies.
house guests
soul session
A tradition that has been around since the 1970s, a soul session is an opportunity for individuals to express themselves creatively through spoken word, dance, music, poetry, or song. Sometimes audience members are so moved that they toss shoes at the feet of the individual giving the performance to show respect and appreciation.
kwanzaa
Kwanzaa, traditionally celebrated from December 26 to January 2, is a nationally recognized holiday started in the 1960s. The holiday is aimed at uniting black families through heritage and cultural tradition.
umoja!
Umoja, Swahili for "unity," is one of seven principals of Kwanzaa that greet visitors as they enter the Afrikan Heritage House lounge. These words, carved in word, surround the walls of the lounge. They are: Imani (faith), kuumba (creativity), nia (purpose), ujima (collective responsibility), ujamaa (cooperative economics), and kujichagulia (self-determination).
house prayer
The House prayer is said in unison before dinner. A plaque that hangs on the wall of both dining spaces reads: "One hand to give. One hand to receive. As we eat in umoja. May our minds, bodies and spirits grow stronger to enable us to build a better world for African people."
constructing a-house
In the late 1960s, Oberlin allocated spaces on campus for those with an interest in African heritage. The house moved to its present location in Lord-Saunders in1972.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
Thomas Abeyta
Erik Andrews
Ben Garfinkel '14
Yvonne Gay
Michael Hartman
Zachary Jamieson '15
Derek Mahone '22
Dale Preston '83
Tanya Rosen-Jones '97
John Seyfried
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