Join TAMIU Professor for Black History Month Event Feb. 5

Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) assistant professor of education Dr. Israel Peniel will lead audience members on a journey through Black History accompanied by the sounds of gospel music Tuesday, Feb. 5 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Recital Hall.

This is the second year that Dr. Peniel’s “Songs for Freedom: Black History Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” is offered at TAMIU. Sponsored by TAMIU’s Office of Student Affairs, this event is free of charge and open to the public.

Special guests Tony and Cecy Gutierrez III, who pastor the New Life Assembly of God in Laredo, and Johnny J Gonzalez and Family Ministries of McAllen will provide an added spiritual uplifting that night.

“I will share my experience of having seen America change over the years from having existing Jim Crow laws to the present-day progression of having our first African-American president, Barrack Obama,” Dr. Peniel explained.

He will share the experience of growing up in the Deep South in a segregated society deeply rooted in racism, when Blacks were considered second-class citizens.

“I’ll share the heartfelt songs that kept Negro slaves alive and filled with hope of one day being free…up to the present-day of contemporary gospel music that appeals to our youth,” Peniel added.

Originally from Tampa, Florida, Dr. Peniel has over 30 years of teaching experience and is an assistant professor for TAMIU’s College of Education, Department of Teacher Preparation and Pedagogy, Special Education-Professional Programs. He is a gifted writer, singer, musician and teacher and provides inspiration and hope to all.

For additional information, contact the TAMIU Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at 326.2180, email primis@tamiu.edu or visit offices in the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library, room 268.

University information is also available online at tamiu.edu and at its social media sites on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. A smartphone and tablet app is also available for free download from the University’s website at www.tamiu.edu

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu