By Mikayla Davis,
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What does the BSU do? What is their purpose?
The Black Student Union holds events just like any other club, events that we try to relate to “black culture,” but also that of other groups represented at SFCC. Its purpose is to serve and entertain as much the SFCC student body as we can.
What events has the BSU done so far?
So far this new year, we had the poet Saul Williams come over to SFCC for a Martin Luther King Jr. celebration. To our relief and amazement, it drew a large, diverse crowd. We even had to close the doors because of maximum capacity allowed in the SUB lounges. Our esteemed SFCC President Dr. Janet Gullickson and Dr. Darren Pitcher came over to support us as well members of faculty and staff. In collaboration with the Wire Harp, we also held the “Slam Off” contest in February in honor of Black History Month.
What other events are they planning?
February has been a busy month for our members and advisor, but we have been discussing what events to hold next; we would like to keep the momentum going. A talent contest has been proposed so far, as well as a karaoke event. On March 18 we are planning to serve food to the homeless with the Blessings Under the Bridge charity; it was proposed to us by Carl whose New Year’s resolution was to volunteer more and we thought that was a cool idea.
Who can join the BSU?
Anyone is welcome to join the BSU! There is a saddening misconception circulating that you have to be black to join and there has not been a club day this year where we have not discussed that. We would love to have as many members as possible from diverse backgrounds. I am from Guinea (West Africa) and I feel like if I, as an international student, can join and serve as President of the Club there is no reason why anyone else could not.
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How can students become a part of the BSU?
Usually, the way students join is by signing up during Welcome Week at the beginning of every quarter. However, we meet every other Friday at 12:45 in the Multicultural Room (sometimes the VIP room of the cafeteria) in the SUB and anyone who would like to join could just stop by and join us then!
Who is in charge of the BSU (students, adviser)?
Our adviser is the uber-cool Carl Richardson. I was elected president almost midway last quarter, having taken over from club veteran Marc Wynn. He literally handed me the position in the most courteous manner as he thought younger members should be more involved. Jeremiah is our treasurer who did that fantastic introduction piece to Saul Williams. Kira Prater is the secretary and Canjarri McKinley -who introduced Saul and who, as we all have learned that day, wishes she were Oprah Winfrey- is our habitual representative to the Activities Board meetings every Tuesday.
Why should students join?
Students should join if they are interested in participating in college life at SFCC. That is why I joined. The BSU, and other clubs for that matter, exist for that very reason. Moreover, students who are planning to transfer to a four-year would want to join to “beef up” that resume as well.
What is your favorite part of the BSU?
I am a “newbie,” but preparing the MLK Jr. celebration was definitely great fun and I am looking forward to holding events such as that one.
What have you gained from being a part of the BSU?
A newfound love for poetry and conscious hip-hop. It is a rather small club; a tight-knit group of traveled students who care about international politics and current events.
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