Black Student Union (BSU), a fairly new club to NC, celebrates African-American heritage year round. The club provides a safe space for students to express their highs, lows and concerns. From trauma to trivia, co-presidents Abigail Addis and Rashida Jalloh help lead any conversation that comes to mind. Founded at NC in 2017, the young organization makes a large impact on the black students at NC.

“Our goal is to offer a place where everyone is welcomed and feels accepted,” senior Magnet co-president Abigail Addis said. 

Despite the common misconception, BSU welcomes students of every color, culture and background. According to the club members, accepting everyone allows for an allyship and understanding of different races. Exemplifying this allows members to create and stimulate cultural diversity. Similar to other Black Student Unions, the club encourages members to give back to the community and help black youth. 

“I would like to see people talking about black issues more and listening to their black peers. It is important to hear a black voice if we want to see progression and end stigmas against the black community,” senior Magnet co-president Rashida Jalloh said.

While BSU originated at the collegiate level, NC’s BSU helps to reach younger audiences. The organization embraces black culture and helps students achieve different levels of success. During meetings, members reflect on things going on in school and in the community relating to the black experience. The notes taken by secretary, senior Iboro Okpok help the organization’s leaders flow into future discussions. 

This past February and Black History Month, the organization spread the influence of important names in black history. They did this not only on campus, but on social media (@nchsbsu) as well. Throughout each day, junior social media managers Abigail Nwachukwu and Makena Mwathi shared infographics about important Black icons. The graphics shared the significance of the person’s impact on the Black community in addition to why we remember them today. On campus, members put together a view board to display famous black people and share quick facts about them.

“I’ve been a part [of BSU] since 2018 and I’ve seen the club grow so much. From the leadership to the topics we discuss, each group of people adds so much light and positivity to the group. Every year the club progresses. I really do believe we can make some type of change at our school,” junior Somiyah Demarcado said.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, in-person meetings have stopped, however, zoom meetings and virtual games keep members excited and involved in discussions. With meetings held at 3:30 pm after school, the organization gives members something to look forward to every Wednesday afternoon. Moving forward, Co-presidents and junior Vice President Ruth Luulay plan to engage in tough conversations and help black students progress beyond their high school years.

“I know that I’m being seen when we have open discussions and talks. It feels good to know that I’m not alone in the way that I feel sometimes. BSU really does offer a safe space for students to come and be themselves,” junior member Erica Holder said.