On Tues., Feb. 22, the Black Student Union (BSU)  held their annual block party in Sigma General where they celebrated Black culture through businesses, music, food and trivia. 

Senior Miylan Eubanks said that the Black Student Union’s mission is to “Give Black students a safe space on campus to decompress, have a good time, and push forward the best version of themselves.” Eubanks found that the club has a “good sense of community, and they allow a space where Black culture can take its shape in all forms and not just a standard monolith,” and the annual BSU block party is a place where this takes form.

The block party coincided with Black History Month, which is celebrated this year from February 1 to March 1.

At the block party, the BSU provided homemade sweet potato pie, music, games and community. Students had the opportunity to support Black-owned businesses, like senior Paige Johnson, who sold her artwork at the party. Students also participated in various rounds of trivia where they were able to display their knowledge of Black history and culture, with questions about TV shows, music, and the civil rights movement and leaders. Students who were able to answer questions correctly were rewarded. At the end of the event, the BSU also provided head scarves and hair care products perfect for students with natural curls.

The BSU’s Graphic Designer and Media Manager Kai Parham said that his favorite event that the BSU hosts is the block party. “It is an event that is a celebration of Black culture that gives everyone a chance to enjoy and have fun together,” he said. Parham is also looking forward to the night talks that the club hosts where they “all come together and discuss current events.”

Freshman club member Kaito Jo-Mokwe said that alongside night talks, the club will also host movie and game nights. She added that the BSU is also planning an event where they “go to the California African American Museum in L.A.” Overall, Jo-Mokwe said that the best part of being a member of the BSU has been “finding people to be comfortable around.” She added, “It was great knowing upperclassmen who just have more experience navigating college and life better than [her].”

If you have questions about the Black Student Union or are interested in joining, you can email the club president Maurima Moore at ​​mauriama.moore@eagles.cui.edu. The BSU meets every Thursday at 8:30 p.m. in Sigma General, so stop by and check it out!

Tags: clubs, event, community

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