Colgate University Celebrates Diversity with Cortisa Star Concert
In a vibrant celebration of music and community, Colgate University hosted a lively concert featuring the talented rapper and model Cortisa Star, alongside the electrifying DJ and Colgate alum Yeraldi, on Friday, March 27. This event, organized by the Queer and Trans People of Color (QTPOC) group, provided a dynamic space for students to come together, dance, and revel in a sense of belonging.
Setting the Stage: The Mat
The concert took place in the Mat, a lively venue situated near Parker and Newell apartments, which buzzed with excitement as attendees arrived. Before Cortisa Star took the stage, DJ Yeraldi energetically warmed up the crowd with fast-paced electronic beats. The atmosphere was electric as students danced and sang along, forging connections through music and movement.
DJ Yeraldi: Bridging Past and Present
DJ Yeraldi, reflecting on their journey, shared insights into their passion for music. “My favorite part about DJing is searching for new music,” they explained. “I love going down Bandcamp rabbit holes searching for tracks that move me.” Their approach was evident as they filled the room with infectious rhythms, instantly engaging the audience.
Salem Sokpoli, a senior and historian of QTPOC, highlighted the significance of hosting the concert for both current and future students. “It feels like we’re doing something for the future by bringing Cortisa in, but also continuing that DJ tradition at Colgate,” they remarked, emphasizing the importance of nurturing a culture of inclusivity and representation on campus.
Cortisa Star Takes the Stage
As the crowd grew restless with excitement, Cortisa Star finally stepped into the spotlight. Known for her unique digicore-driven party rap, she quickly captivated the audience. Described by Face Magazine as an underground icon on the rise, her performance brought an infectious spirit to the Mat.
Beyond her music, Cortisa interacted with the audience in a way that made the concert feel intimate and personal. She engaged attendees by leading games like heads-up seven-up, offering winners the chance to dance alongside her on stage. First-year student Star Quero relished the experience: “Going up on the stage felt so scary yet very exciting for me since I got to dance alongside Cortisa Star herself,” they said, reflecting on the thrill of being part of such an engaging performance.
Fostering Connections and Inclusivity
Both DJ Yeraldi and Cortisa Star emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming environment. Yeraldi noted, “Cortisa engaged with the audience and created personal connections throughout the concert.” The nostalgic games added a community feel, making everyone feel included under the bright lights of the stage.
Quero also highlighted the significance of representation, noting how Cortisa referred to the audience as “lightskinned cousins,” which resonated deeply and made attendees feel acknowledged. “Overall, the Cortisa Star concert was really fun and amazing, and I was starstruck by the star herself!” they concluded, echoing the excitement that filled the room.
Behind the Scenes: Bringing Cortisa Star to Campus
The process of selecting Cortisa Star as a performer was a thoughtful endeavor. Salem Sokpoli, a key figure in the planning, shared insights into their efforts. As a former vice president of QTPOC, Sokpoli was involved in pitching the idea to various committees and negotiating with university administration. “We picked Cortisa because we want to highlight Queer art of color, especially music that is typically underground,” they said, emphasizing the concert’s role in uplifting underrepresented voices.
The collaboration with the Director of LGBTQ+ Initiatives, Lyosha Gorshkov, ensured that Cortisa’s arrival on campus would be smooth, showcasing the importance of teamwork in organizing such impactful events.
Continuing the QTPOC Legacy
The concert not only brought Cortisa Star to Colgate but also reinforced a tradition of celebrating diversity within the community. DJ Yeraldi reflected on the experience, stating, “Seeing this concert solidified as a QTPOC tradition was really special.” Reconnecting with the campus after graduating and witnessing the event’s legacy was a source of pride.
Ultimately, the concert embodied QTPOC’s mission to uplift underrepresented voices and foster connections. It was a space where students could celebrate their identities collectively, reflecting the essence of community and cultural expression at Colgate University. The vibrant energy of the night served as a reminder of the power of music to unite and inspire, making a lasting impact on everyone in attendance.
