The MESA program coordinated a Black in STEM game night on Feb. 18 from noon to 4 p.m. on the second floor of the Science Building. There were tables set up with different games such as checkers, Mancala, Uno and deck of cards. Instruction cards explained the rules and the cultural significance of how each game holds meaning in Black culture. Many of the games are a cookout classic, and are played at events.
Michael Simpson, MESA program coordinator, explained the purpose of the event. “It is one of our Black history month events for MESA. We provide a space for students to take a break from studying. These games that we’re highlighting, are games that have cultural history in Black families.”
“We have the rules of the games and the cultural significance to Black culture,” Simpson said. “All of these games are very accessible, such as a deck of cards or Mancala as it is just the board and the pebbles. These are games that allow conversations to take place and intergenerational connections and learning to happen,” Simpson said.
As the event continued, an intense game of UNO happened. Uno is a family and community tradition as it is played everywhere imaginable. It’s considered a Black household staple.
Student Janelle Hipolito, a member of the MESA program, explains how she had fun in the match.
“I was scared to get fired because I was playing against my boss and their true colors showed, but overall the game was fun.”
MESA director Antoinette Corbin said the games have close ties to African American culture.
“It is a way for students to take a break and we figured games would be fun.”
Poster boards highlighting African American scientists and mathematicians, Including Emery N.Brown, a lead investigator of the neuroscience statistics research lab at MIT. Along with many others were displayed throughout the MESA center on both floors.
As the event continued, more students joined in, playing one round or multiple rounds of each game. Student Breanna Fumar explained events like this are important for students.
“I really like these events because it’s a way to meet new people that you normally wouldn’t meet and it’s a nice break between classes.”
Additionally, Fumar added that the MESA lab is a great place to hangout or study. “It is welcome to everyone to check us out here in MESA. It is a great learning community and we have snacks. Events such as these are important to unwind amidst academic responsibilities. It is a way to destress and to meet new people.
