Columnist Rochelle Riley talks love, sex and the economy this Thursday

As part of Women’s History Month, Oakland University will welcome Detroit Free Press columnist Rochelle Riley at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 26 in the Oakland Center Gold Rooms.

The multi-talented Riley has worked for a variety of newspapers; provided commentary to National Public Radio, CNN and WDIV-TV; authored two essay collections; advocated the building of a Mohammad Ali museum; is currently producing a documentary; and has earned a plethora of awards, being named “Best Local Columnist” by the Michigan Press Association twice.

She was selected as an exceptional professional woman with passion and confidence to share, according to Joann Bautti-Roche, coordinator of OU’s Gender & Sexuality Center.

“Rochelle is a strong and successful African American woman who isn't afraid to write and talk about the tough issues,” Bautti-Roche said. “During the challenges Michigan is facing right now, I think it's important for students to see a local celebrity who addresses the social issues we are facing with courage and intelligence.”

Riley’s presence may have a stabilizing and calming effect to contrast with the level of stress and uncertainty facing Michigan residents at this time, according to Bautti-Roche. She said Riley serves as an excellent example of how students can make their own opportunities and solve fundamental problems by staying in the state.

“Rochelle is a great role model for young men and women who feel that leaving Michigan is the answer to our current economic state. In difficult times, it is often easier to leave rather than look at the issues and address them. Rochelle is someone who is committed to Metro Detroit and bringing awareness, through her writing and speaking, to the social issues that impact who we are and how we live,” Bautti-Roche said.

The current economic situation adds a level of versatility to Riley’s speech, which will still largely focus on romantic relationships and women’s history. Organizers anticipate roughly 200 attendees.

Sponsored by the Gender & Sexuality Center, this year’s Women’s History Month theme is “Love and Sex” and has supplied a number of outstanding and controversial events, including poetry readings, a transgender dialogue, performances of “The Vagina Monologues,” a self-love day spa and the upcoming mock trial over consensual sex and rape.

For more information on these events, visit the Gender & Sexuality Web site.