Florida A&M will hold its Third Annual National Conference on African/Black Psychology, which focuses on violence.
The conference comprises a series of events, with one anticipated event – “Gang Girl.”
“Gang Girl” will appear Friday at 5 p.m. in the Blue Cross Blue Shield Auditorium of the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
“This event is one of many events,” said Jermaine Robertson, a professor in the department of Psychology. “But this is the staple event.”
This session is named after the well-known Los Angeles documentary, “Gang Girl,” which will also be featured at the event. It was written, directed and produced by Valerie Goodloe, a photojournalist.
The film focuses on her daughter’s journey as a gang member in LA. Goodloe was a postal worker who moved into photojournalism, making her mark in LA by capturing some of the best photos of highly-acclaimed celebrities.
“I can’t wait to participate in this event,” said Tyler Marshalls, a sophomore sociology student from Pensacola. “It’s important for people to realize the struggle that many people face in society and allow them to be used as a tool for our advancement.”
Many people are expected to attend, as reflected in the past, from across the nation. Activists from Cleveland and Adeleri Onisegun, of Paine College in Augusta, Ga., will also attend.
Sessions and workshops are free for students with their Rattler ID and a $100 for professionals. The conference will also honor FAMU’s Na’im Akbar at a banquet Saturday at 7 p.m. in the Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center. Akbar, who has been noted for his hands-on involvement with ending hazing on campus, will be recognized for his life and work. Tickets are $40.