South Sudan Celebration Comes to DU

The University of Denver will host a celebration of the South Sudanese community living in Denver this Saturday, July 16th. South Sudan is the world’s newest country, gaining its independence from Sudan five years ago after decades of civil war.

“The South Sudanese people could not have found peace and liberation without the help of our allies, including former President George W. Bush and Condoleezza Rice," says Justin Thiok, President of the South Sudanese Community Association of Colorado. Rice received her BA in political science and her PhD in international studies from DU.

In spite of the current instability of South Sudan as the country grapples with power struggles between its two top leaders, Thiok says most South Sudanese have a dream that their home country will soon be strong. He believes the key is education.

Saturday’s celebration will be held at the Driscoll Student Center from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. It will feature authentic South Sudanese food, dance and speeches.