The Soultown! Volume III: Issue 2 FEBRUARY 2019 | Page 16

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY Jerrell Bates is a native of Waterloo, Iowa and a freshman at the University of Northern Iowa studying psychology. He has been a member of BSU since October and he also plays intramural basketball. He joined BSU because he believes it is a good opportunity to link up with other Black students across campus. “The most exciting part for me, so far, is meeting different people and making friends that come from all over the world,” Bates said. He has attended the Black History Kick-Off and the Step Off event. His plans are to continue to participate and increase his network. On Friday, February 15, UNI BSU is hosting a skate party at the Wellness Recreation Center - Lower Courts (WRC) from 7pm-10pm. The event is kid friendly and family oriented and is open to the public. Traditionally, the students from Wartburg College’s BSU have shown support by attending the event. Paris says, “This is one of the few times we can build relationships with them. We have invited them in the past and will continue to nurture our relationship.” Skates are provided, but you can bring your own. DJ TMax da Kid will be on the wheels of steel. The purpose of joining clubs on college campuses increase social awareness and joining an organization is one of the best ways to build a bigger network. One of the most important opportunities in college is networking with people who share similar interests because it offers an opportunity to explore possible career opportunities and learn what it takes to reach your goals. Paris admits, “I have grown as a leader since I’ve joined the BSU and I’ve taken on more responsibility. I enjoy working with the executive team -- students that have been members for 2 semesters or more -- and learning about leadership. Yakira Sanders, the former president, has been a huge influence on me. She’s answered a lot of my questions and encourages me to join leadership conferences.” The process of preparing for Black History Month is rigorous. When selecting the events, committees are selected. Previous executive members are invited for feedback and brainstorming sessions. A list is populated ranging from fun activities to sessions on supporting mental health. Based on the list, a determination is made. BSU hosts between 14-16 events during the month of February. The proposal consists of details of the event, time, date and cost. A budget is decided and approval is received from the BSU advisors. Next steps include reserving the rooms on campus and marketing the events. Black Student Unions are not just for Black students. The idea is to share the Black culture with all cultures Paris and NeiAira display solidarity with a creative poster made by general body members. that have joined and believe in the causes and celebrations. Bates says, “It can be difficult being a minority on a predominantly white campus. Joining BSU is an opportunity to meet others who share the same culture as you.” NeiAira Burt is in the middle of her junior year. She has been a member since she was a freshman. Currently serving as vice president, she joined to be an advocate for African American students on UNI’s campus. She also believes it is important to bring the Black culture and experiences to the campus. Burt says, “BSU has seen some major changes this year, but the executive board has adapted to those changes. We are hosting 14 events during the month of February and are looking forward to sharing in the Black History Month Celebration. I am also looking forward to the skate party. It’s a 1990 - 2000’s theme. I’m looking forward to the music taking me back to my childhood.” The sponsors for the 2019 Black History Month See what’s happening in thesoultown.com! 16 FEBRUARY 2019 • CELEBRATING 2 YEARS OF CONNECTING OUR CULTURE TO OUR CYBER & CONSCIOUS COMMUNITIES • THESOULTOWN.COM