The Black Student Union Club (BSU) is building a diversity driven community in one of the the least diverse cities in the state. 

According to U.S. Census data, Spokane’s population holds 85 percent Caucasian compared to the state average of 65 percent.

The BSU club at SFCC meets every Thursday in the Mosaic Center, a space designed for community engagement and growth. The group welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ethnicities, focusing on strong relationships and helping one another succeed.

Mei Eseeria is a student at SFCC and is studying for her direct transfer with hopes of going to Eastern afterwards. Originally from the Philippines, Eseeria moved to Spokane to be with relatives. Having found a place in the BSU Club, Esseria appreciates the focus on community and inclusivity.

“I feel like it’s like a family thing,” Eseeria says. “Very quickly you start building relationships. 

“Everyone is welcome. A lot of people assume that it’s not a welcome place for other races. And the club is just pretty cool!”

Another student at SFCC and member of the BSU, Jayla Knight is also studying for her direct transfer. Knight is from Baltimore and dreams of studying at Howard University to one day become a lawyer.

As a member of the club, Knight similarly describes the sense of community. 

“If you’re looking for somewhere to feel accepted, to be with like-minded people, people who you can have decent and intriguing conversations with, then definitely come to BSU,” Knight said.

Teddy Mitchell is a student who has recently joined BSU. He is originally from Florida but says he feels welcome at SFCC, mostly because of the club.

“They’re very proactive,” Mitchell said. “They saw me walking around my first quarter here, winter, or last quarter. 

“I was just kind of wandering around like a lost person and they grabbed me and asked me if I wanted to be a part of BSU…they promote a lot that you don’t have to be black or anything like that. It is the Black Student Union, but you don’t have to be black. We get white people, Hispanics…anyone is welcome to join.”

Mitchell also describes the sort of comradery within the club.

“The focus is on building community,” Mitchell said. “Since we have so many people and from different backgrounds, we’re constantly telling each other about different clubs or how to get involved with ASG or Latinos Unidos. We’re often the ones having lunch with the dean every month.” 

Carl Richardson is one of the club founders and current advisors. He sits reclined in his chair and talks with a slow, soft confidence.

“It’s been shown that when people can find and form community they’re more successful in whatever they’re doing,” Richardson said.

For any questions or comments on this story, please contact Alex Cover at sfcc.alexander.cover@gmail.com.