Affiliated with the 19-year-old CUNY Black Male Initiative, Guttman’s United Men of Color (UMOC) program has fueled men of color with brotherhood and self-awareness through mentoring and fortifying academic skills since the group began at the college. UMOC members engage in character-building through community and sociocultural dialogue through a rich array of workshops, service, cultural and recreational opportunities offered throughout each semester.
This month’s UMOC calendar, beginning with a 10/8 introductory meeting, was packed! According to Director Jose-Luis Garcia, who offers the programming with College Assistant James Allen, UMOC members could choose from a variety of fun, informative, and inspiring activities.
Promoted as part of Latinx Heritage Month celebrations, the 10/9 Latin dance class brought members together for cultural appreciation and physical wellness. UMOC’s monthly meeting, “The Conscious Connect,” a safe space for men to discuss key social, personal, and professional issues that affect young students of color, took place on 10/15. Facilitated open dialogue encouraged critical thinking and personal growth in navigating societal challenges, with members sharing their own wisdom gained through experience. On 10/24, UMOC welcomed new members with a formal Induction Ceremony. In the presence of mentors and peers, the scholars affirmed their commitment to their own development and academic success.
