The Drum
The Official Newsletter of the FSU Black Alumni
The official newsletter of the Black Alumni at FSU is the DRUM. This publication enhances the organization’s communication network by making Black alumni aware of what’s happening with the organization and at Florida State University. The DRUM was the organization’s primary method of communicating with Black alumni throughout the world, while also symbolizing our heritage and connection with our African ancestors and the Seminole Tribe.
The Black Alumni at FSU have also adopted the “Drum” as its symbol. As part of the 1994 FSU Black Alumni Reunion, Kevin D. Carr and Gregory Harris developed the “Prelude to the Drum”, which was adopted and approved by the National Board of Directors as one of the most prestigious recognitions bestowed by the FSU Black Alumni.
Prelude to the Drum
The Black Alumni at Florida State University are proud of its many accomplishments, progress and members. We pride ourselves on the precious “DRUM” which signifies our individual success and progress, as well as the collective accomplishments of Black graduates of Florida State University. The symbol of the “DRUM” is our hope for a better future while we learn more about our rich past.
The “DRUM” which is pictured on all our related documents and paraphernalia, symbolizes the soft beat we make as individual members and the thunderous roar we make as a group.
Collectively, the loud beat represents all our energy and progress as professional Black men and women. We must continue to resound loudly so that our accomplishments, both personally and professionally, warrant our high place in society.
The following passage excerpted from a song titled, “THE DRUM”, by the Sounds of Blackness best reflects our role, mission, and dedication to all people, especially people of African descent:
WE ARE THE DRUM
FROM THE BEGINNING OF THE MOTHER.
WE ARE KINGS AND QUEENS
WITH LANDS THAT STRETCH FROM OCEAN TO OCEAN.
WE ARE ALL THAT!
IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE BEAT,
AND THE BEAT WAS THE RHYTHM OF GOD,
AND THE RHYTHM OF GOD IS THE HARMONY OF HUMANITY,
AND WHERE THERE IS HARMONY THERE IS PEACE.
THE DRUM SPEAKS.
THE RHYTHM IN HEART IS OUR FREEDOM.
WILL YOU GIVE UP YOUR RHYTHM?
WILL YOU STOP PLAYIN’ YOUR DRUM?”