Rumble with a Purpose
Lynn Students Hold a Drum Circle
By Lisset Guillen, Assistant Editor
The Black Student Union and the True to You club joined on Feb. 29, 2024, in the Snyder Sanctuary to discuss intergenerational patterns, meditate and hold a drum circle.
Intergenerational patterns are behaviors, beliefs and family values that are passed down through generations. Claudia Valentine, president of the Black Student Union, led a meditation that helped students “let go” of their collective trauma.
“Collective trauma is the experiences that are shared amongst a group of people as a result of systemic oppression, racism, discrimination, socio-culturally, relationally and biologically,” said Valentine. “In my research, the main difference between mental health struggles within the black community and other communities is the prevalence. African Americans have increased prevalence of adverse childhood experiences, divorce and relational issues, shorter life expectancy and higher rates of poverty. Black women also experience higher rates of domestic violence.”
The meditation was calming and helped students free their minds. Many felt renewed following the activities.
“I enjoyed the meditation,” said Daniel Miranda Duarte, a first-year student majoring in social entrepreneurship. “It not only allowed navigating your own emotions, but also express them. The practice of forgiveness is always essential.”
The meeting concluded with a drum circle in which everyone could participate. Each student could pick a drumstick, a water gallon tank and a cowbell. However, the drum circle signified something deeper.
“The drum circle was about paying respect to African American culture,” said Ari Resnick, president of True to You. “Drumming can be a way to help cope with mental health struggles because when you are angry, you want to hit something. It is a controlled way of getting your anger out.”
The drumming was loud, in tune and meaningful as students could release any anger within.
The Black Student Union and True to You club plan to stay connected this semester and develop other activities that benefit mental health.
