ASLC hosts summer ‘Soul-mer Learning Community’

The ASLC hosted the Pink Panthers Soul-mer Learning Community this summer for four weeks. The Pink Panthers is a community project and sorority organized to build self-esteem, leadership, and the development of sisterhood in young girls of color from the ages four to 15. 
The sorority met each week on the fourth floor of the Student Center. The organization’s co-founders are Tamika Phillips and Nyisha Moncreaseor. Moncreaseor is a 2013 Laney graduate with a degree in Social Science. 
“The group was enlightened every day, especially the older girls starting high school, who were especially inspired by the interaction with the Laney students,” Moncreaseor said. 
The group started the day in a morning circle of prayer with “Hirambe,” which is Swahili for “pulling together.” During this time several students and faculty would stop by and engage in the prayer circle. 
Jason Seals, professor of African American history, conducted a workshop with the girls on “Knowing your essences and purpose.” Alicia Barlow, who heads a non-profit organization, “Tell Somebody,” held a workshop on the importance of children telling someone if they are being touched inappropriately.

The activities consisted of field trips and dance classes on the quad. The group was also given theater access for performances. Rolanda Bell, a Laney dance student, conducted a workshop inside the theater. “The girls got to perform on stage and the girls felt like it was home,” Moncreaseor said. Moncreaseor was grateful for the campus support provided by the faculty and students feeling they all participated in the group’s learning experience. 
During the last week of the program the group had an environment day where they cleaned up trash around the Estuary. The campus custodian provided the garage bags and gloves. Moncreaseor was asked, “What is next for the Pink Panthers?” She answered, “After the four-week program, girls are inducted into the sorority and the group continues to work with the community on projects and events to uplift the youth and encourage our future leaders.” 
Moncreaseor went on to say,” We are grateful for the ASLC allowing us to hold our program on campus and for the participation of the Laney staff, faculty, students and the custodians.”