(Photo by: Garrett Lovell)

Inclusion means creating a space for everyone. On JCCC’s campus, the Black Student Union does just that, opening its doors to all who want to make friends and have fun while learning more about Black history and culture. Through weekly meetings and bigger events, the Black Student Union provides a space to build community and promote belonging.

The Black Student Union, or BSU, emphasizes empowerment, culture, education, community engagement, activism and networking as part of its goals. Advisor Lareesa Nelson emphasized uplifting future leaders as part of the club.

“My job is to help [the officers] be the best in whatever role they choose … I’ll say, ‘Who’s going to do that?’ and the president eventually picks up on what I’m saying, and then she starts saying that. So then I’m sitting back, and I’m letting her lead.”

Recruiting Officer Dylan Magwere says the club has helped him to develop leadership skills and confidence.

“It really has [helped me],” Magwere said. “Most of my friends are in the club.”

Recruiting Officer Olivier Soljour shared a similar sentiment.

“I’m Black, … I never really had that sense of community where I could be myself, and I feel like [with] those guys … I can be myself, and they won’t really judge.”

Part of being community-focused means including everyone, and BSU leadership emphasizes that the club is open to all students. Soljour shared that many students ask him if they can join if they aren’t Black.

“I’d rather have all races,” he said.

“There’s Caucasian students that come, there’s African students … I’ve never seen a student be like ‘why are you here?’” Nelson said.

That same focus on community informs the direction of club meetings. Students share their mood at the beginning of each meeting along with introductions, showing the underlying emphasis on involvement and inclusion. Club activities after that can vary; some meetings are discussion-based and deal with Black history and culture, while others may involve games to unwind. Discussions range from music to hair to students’ future goals.

The BSU also puts on larger events through the semester, depending on the interests of club members. One upcoming event is Community Day, which will include performances, panels, hands-on activities and live music. Community Day will take place in the Student Center on February 26th from 11-1 p.m.

They have also had many speakers over the years. Malcom X’s daughter spoke to the club during Covid-19. Quinton Lucas, mayor of Kansas City, Missouri, visited along with the police department so students could ask questions during a time of unrest in the city.

Other activities and events in the past have included karaoke, poetry slams, a Black business expo, a redline tour, and a game day.

Students interested in checking out a weekly meeting can find the BSU in the Co-Lab at 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Event locations can vary, so it’s best to check their Get Involved page to be sure.To learn more about the Black Student Union visit their Get Involved Page.