JRay Kuhn establishes Rhythm N’ Soul Collective to empower Black students and promote cultural understanding at BYU
BYU student JRay Kuhn, a Bay Area native, has founded the Rhythm N’ Soul Collective, a dance group aimed at creating a sense of belonging and fighting back against racism experienced by Black students at Brigham Young University. Kuhn’s personal experiences with racism at BYU motivated him to use his talents in cultural dance to find solace and support others facing similar challenges. Through his group, Kuhn hopes to foster a greater understanding of African cultures and provide a safe space for students of color on campus.
Encountering Racism at BYU
Kuhn’s initial excitement about attending BYU was quickly dampened by encounters with racism. Within his ward, a fellow student made derogatory comments about Kuhn’s skin color, singling him out as the only Black individual. These incidents continued, with Kuhn feeling the weight of racial comments and judgments from his peers. Even after moving to a different apartment complex, Kuhn faced further racism from his roommate, who repeatedly used racial slurs and derogatory language. Despite reaching out for help, Kuhn found limited support from the university and his apartment management.
Seeking Belonging Through Dance
Kuhn’s experiences left him questioning his place at BYU and longing for a sense of belonging. However, his involvement in cultural dance groups, such as Remembering Our Culture (now known as Legacies) and Living Legends, provided a source of strength and empowerment. Learning African dances and immersing himself in the rich cultural heritage of others helped Kuhn combat the racism he faced and embrace his own identity. Inspired by his experiences with Living Legends, Kuhn decided to start Rhythm N’ Soul Collective to represent African cultures and create change for Black students at BYU.
Empowering Black Students Through Dance
Rhythm N’ Soul Collective, established in the fall semester, aims to provide a platform for dancers and singers to express their cultural heritage and find a sense of belonging. Kuhn and his co-creator, Fatwa Luka, collaborated with faculty in the BYU dance department to develop performances that celebrate the African diaspora. The group has already showcased their talents at various events on campus, including the Empowher conference. Through their performances, Rhythm N’ Soul Collective seeks to empower both their dancers and the audience, fostering connections and promoting cultural education.
Creating Safe Spaces and Promoting Change
Kuhn and Luka emphasize the importance of creating safe spaces for Black students and other students of color at BYU. Many Black students have felt discouraged and unsupported, leading some to leave the university. Rhythm N’ Soul Collective aims to challenge this narrative by providing a supportive environment where students can embrace their cultural identities and feel a sense of acceptance. Kuhn’s ultimate goal is to make a positive impact and be a resource for all students of color who may feel marginalized or unsure of their place at BYU.
Conclusion:
JRay Kuhn’s personal experiences with racism at BYU have led him to establish Rhythm N’ Soul Collective, a dance group dedicated to empowering Black students and promoting cultural understanding on campus. Through their performances, the group aims to combat racism, foster a sense of belonging, and provide a platform for students to express their cultural heritage. Kuhn’s journey demonstrates the power of dance and music in overcoming adversity and creating change. By embracing their identities and sharing their talents, the members of Rhythm N’ Soul Collective are paving the way for a more inclusive and accepting community at BYU.
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