IUPUC Division of Liberal Arts Partners with Arts for AIDS to Present “Songs of Hope” on December 4 at YES Cinema

by Jay Lesandrini
November 27, 2018
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For a sixth year in a row, the IUPUC Division of Liberal Arts is partnering with Arts for AIDS to help raise awareness and generate support for those affected by HIV/AIDS across Indiana and the globe. This year’s event, “Songs of Hope,” features South African singer-songwriter Berita and will be held on Tuesday, December 4, 2018 at YES Cinema in Columbus, Indiana. The event is free and open to the public with doors opening at 6:30 p.m.

During the last six years, sociology students in Professor Aimee Zoeller’s classes have been directly involved in the partnership, however, this year’s event is especially relevant for those in the “Music and Social Change” course which examines the effects of music in cultural and political change. Not only have students been involved with event promotion, but they will also have the unique opportunity to interact with both Berita and Dr. Cooke in order to gain deeper insights into how social change is created.

“This is what excites me most,” said Zoeller, “meeting students at the intersection of academic studies, community engagement, and an authentic experience of those most deeply affected by, or committed to. the matter at hand.” 

Berita is a true African jewel who has received multiple awards and is proving to be one of the most important new voices of this generation. Her music inspires compassion, hope and channels unpredictable emotions that can raise our awareness and promote social justice.

In addition to Berita’s performance, Arts for AIDs will introduce Dr. Will Cooke, their 2018 Frontline Hero for his commitment and compassion in addressing the HIV outbreak in Scott County. Dr. Cooke was also recently named Family Physician of the Year by the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Arts for AIDS is a Columbus based initiative formed by combining the efforts of five organizations representing projects in Haiti, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Arts for AIDS raises awareness of HIV/AIDS, generates support for those affected by this pandemic, and connects communities through artistic expression.

For more information, contact Aimee Zoeller at anzoelle@iupuc.edu.