John Carroll’s Black Student Union and the networks of BSUs across Maryland interact as a community. BSU encourages a friendly, welcoming environment in JC.
The Black Student Union meets after school on D Days to share their experiences. They talk about upcoming events, black culture and figures in the media, and anything that excites them. Additionally, BSU hosts and attends events that unite students as a community in and out of school.
They hold sessions to discuss their experiences as students of color at John Carroll. The sessions provide feedback and unity, allowing them to create change within the school. Their interactions during meetings enable members to learn from each other and curate bonds that last throughout their high school years and beyond.
BSU works to encourage the JC community to recognize the impact of achievements made by people of color throughout history. They work to inspire conversations that foster the diversity and inclusion of the school population. BSU plans to continue its annual announcements for Black History Month.
Black History Month is an essential celebration because it allows the nation to reflect on Black History. It creates a moment for people to learn from the past, recognize how people have grown, and strive to improve as time progresses. It also gives all communities a chance to acknowledge black people’s experiences, goals, and achievements within the nation and across the globe.
BSU President Tatiana Wilkins, said, “Our community of BSU members have expressed that the BSU is a power to discuss Black Pride and issues unapologetically. It serves as a space where members can fully express themselves and educate and learn from each other. The Black Student Union is a center of community and togetherness. It’s a way for communities within John Carroll and other schools to show each other support and solidarity. I genuinely believe that the Black Student Union helps foster the growth of students in high school because it grants students support, new experiences, and historical knowledge.”
This month, the BSU is sharing inspiration through quotes from influential black achievers throughout history through their Instagram account. BSU is also providing information through morning announcements, social media posts, and collaboration with other clubs.
The BSU has upcoming plans, such as attending events hosted by other schools’ BSUs and hosting an assembly at the end of February. They are hosting a collaborative donation drive with Bel Air High School’s BSU.
All of BSU’s proceeds are going towards Harford Family House. Additionally, they have been and will continue to attend events with BSUs at schools like Loyola Blakefield, Calvert Hall, Roland Park Country School, and Mercy High School. They hope to do their annual collaborative meeting with the Women’s Empowerment Club to recognize and celebrate both Black History Month and Women’s History Month.
This will take place at the end of the month to close Black History Month and introduce Women’s History Month. BSU wants members to walk away from their meetings with a sense of belonging and understanding. Students need to know about the impact of their achievements and those of others.
The club wants its members to feel proud of who they are and confident to speak up for others. Most of all, they want the club members to walk away feeling like they’ve learned something, whether it be something about themselves or other communities in the world and what goes on in their communities.
Anyone who wants to join the Black Student Union can meet on D Days from 2:15-2:45 in Room 304. If anyone wants to hear updates and information about the BSU, ask Mrs. Crawford ([email protected]) about being added to the BSU email list. She is located in the counselor wing.
Additionally, they encourage Patriots to follow their Instagram: @jc_bsu to learn more information.