American film director and actor Spike Lee will speak at the University of Memphis during a Black History Month event on Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. in the Rose Theatre.
“Because of who Spike Lee is, this event will easily attract many students,” Eric Bailey, coordinator of Multicultural Affairs, said. “We aimed for someone who is not only entertaining but also educational.”
Bailey said two hot topics Lee should address are his highly controversial movie, “Chi-Raq,” and the boycotting of the Oscars by Lee and several other African American actors.
“Chi-Raq” will be shown at the University Center on Feb. 17. Bailey hopes this will let students familiarize themselves with the director’s work before he arrives.
Lee may also give insight about his rise to fame, encouragement to the audience and perhaps touch on the advancement of African Americans in society and the work that still needs to be done, according to Bailey.
“We intentionally didn’t want to script the event so that Lee can be more engaging and personal with the audience,” Bailey said. “That way everyone can relate and take away something positive from what he has to say.”
Lee visited the U of M six years ago for a similar event where he encouraged students to follow their passions rather than focusing solely on salaries.
Bailey said it is important for students to come out to witness an African American who is doing well in society despite all odds against him. He said students should be interested in the event, not just because of his name, but because of how relevant he has been in society for so long.
Despite being a heavily critiqued and negatively reviewed celebrity, Lee’s name is still relevant when it comes to not only films but also being a pioneer and activist for the African American community, according to Bailey.
“Students need to see why he’s been so successful,” Bailey said. “He wasn’t spoon-fed. He had to crawl from the bottom to the top just like so many of us.”
Education student and member of the Black Student Association, Ciera Walker, said that she believes Lee will offer students great insight about life, struggles in the entertainment industry and inspire students for greatness.
She added his films are not only classic and entertaining, but they are also culturally and socially relevant to modern-day reality.
“He’s a living legend, and I’m so excited to see him this month,” Walker said.
Bailey said the University wants Lee to give advice to spark inspiration in students and staff in attendance.
“This will be a great college experience,” Bailey said. “Students will be able to look back and say, ‘Hey, I remember when I was at the U of M, and we had Spike Lee come and speak.’”
This event is free of charge to students and the public.
