Chambana Sun

Illinois junior linebacker Kenenna Odeluga will host the second annual Afro-Tailgate during the Fighting Illini's Homecoming contest against Central Michigan on Saturday at Memorial Stadium.

Featuring food, music, and more, the Afro-Tailgate serves as an opportunity to partake in a cultural experience and enjoy a college football game in a safe, welcoming setting.

"When my dad and I first learned about the tailgate experience, we realized that many times, the tailgate experience is just as important as the game and the full experience of a whole football outing. After realizing that, we wanted to find a way to reach minorities," Odeluga said. "We wanted to find a way to reach people who have not been able to experience that for themselves or were not brought up in it. We also wanted to add a little bit of our own culture and flair to it, so that is how the Afro-Tailgate was born."

"This cultural understanding is second nature to many people, but for many immigrant, first-generation, or minority students, especially from the African Diaspora, it's a novel idea only grasped by those who have experienced it. To bridge the gap between football culture and Afro-Caribbean culture, we created a tailgate section where we would eat authentic African dishes and drinks. The turnout was amazing, and we want to make this a recurring event for all to enjoy."

Last year, Odeluga sponsored over 60 tickets for on-campus RSO groups; people from his hometown in South Holland, Illinois; and members of his church. After the game, Odeluga joined the group for music, food, and conversations.

Hoping to expand this time around, Odeluga aims to create an inclusive cultural experience.

"College football brings everyone together. Every race, gender, culture: Everyone comes to watch a football game," Odeluga said. "The tailgate experience is that culmination. It's a place where people are able to have some time to themselves and create traditions that often become more important than the actual outcome of the football game."

Odeluga emphasizes using his platform as a college athlete for community impact. Raised by parents who are both pastors with strong values of selflessness and service,

"I saw the importance of it early on," he said. "As I was growing up... Since coming to college... If I am going to do it well."

A 2024 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team nominee with significant community involvement including mission trips,

"It's an honor... you don't really expect," he noted regarding being named.

Odeluga invites individuals of all ages and backgrounds,

"We're really trying... Anyone can come... It's a really cool proposition."