The Black Student Union [BSU] at UC High, guided by Advisors Master Sergeant Eric Cole and Gunnery Sergeant Clyde Harris and led by President Nikki Godwin, is a club where students meet every Thursday at lunch to learn about and celebrate Black culture.

    Godwin has been a part of BSU since her freshman year and this school year will be her second year being the club’s president. She said, “I chose to run, because I wanted to be a leader for my community and make sure our voices are heard. I also wanted to create events, opportunities, and conversations that bring people together to educate the school.”

   For Godwin, BSU is much more than just a club. “Black Student Union is a safe space where Black students and allies can come together, celebrate culture, and talk about issues that matter to our community…. BSU gives the small percentage of Black students on campus support, connection and pride in our identity while also teaching others about Black history and culture,” said Godwin.

Cole believes the same. “The Black population at UC is less than 20 percent. Feeling connected is important. Feeling safe is even more important. I hope that BSU provides that,” he explained. “I hope the BSU brings confidence and a sense of pride being a Black student at UC and in the world.”

   The beginning of Black student unions dates back to between 1965 and 1972. According to an article about the history of BSU, “This was a pivotal moment in history where African American college students demanded and protested for increased campus inclusivity” (bestcolleges.com). Black student unions transpired in order to address many issues regarding civil rights and inequality across college campuses. Black student unions later spread onto high school campuses.

   Godwin believes that not only are Black student unions important for those a part of the African American community but also for those who are not. “It helps them learn about Black culture and history, gain respect for different perspectives, and understand the importance of diversity. It also shows them how to be better allies and advocates even if they aren’t directly affected by some things,” she said.

   Cole said, “[He hopes] to educate and bring awareness to socioeconomic, political and cultural issues and concerns as it relates to the African American community.” He wants students’ main takeaways from BSU to be, “… a feeling of community, pride, and self respect.”

   Cole said, “The last advisor left and being a proud Black man, I felt it was only right to be the advisor for the BSU.”