February, or Black History Month, commemorates the generations of African Americans who struggled amidst adversity to gain full citizenship into American society. The celebration of Black History Month, though the name wasn’t officially coined until February 1976, dates back to the early 1900s. The month was created to further National Negro History Week, which took place during the second week of February in 1926, according to the Women’s Day website. The events that took place during this week became so popular throughout the nation that the mayors in cities who participated began issuing a proclamation each year that recognized the celebration.
This is a significant time for Myers Park’s Black Student Union, which aims to reach people by acknowledging Black achievements that may otherwise go unrecognized. The members work to help create academic equity throughout the entire school population by helping connect students with tutors and other academic resources. Additionally, the BSU engages in conversations during their meetings about racial issues at school and work together to try and resolve the problems that arise. They try to plan events that allow African American students at MP to further engage with and demonstrate their interests and talents, such as last year’s step show. To learn more about African American culture, members plan to visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.
When asked what Black History Month meant to this organization, Blake Williams, the social media manager of BSU, said, “Black History Month is a month of celebrating and acknowledging the accomplishments, struggles, and hardships black people have in order to put us in the better position we are in today. During this time, we also remember the numerous significant figures and idols that risked, lost, and gave their lives for the dreams of black people, which was freedom.”
Keep a look out for all that the Black Student Union has planned for this month! Members are working hard to schedule as many events as possible to celebrate. Another step-show is in the works, with possible recruitments from various African American sororities and fraternities. The Union will also be leading a Black History Month Spirit Week full of activities for the Myers Park student body to enjoy. A sneak peek of a few of the themes includes HBCU day (Historically Black College or University), Blackout day, and Cultural day. Not only is there an opportunity to dress up, but there will also be delicious food! The Union hopes to bring in Cuzzo’s, a local food truck for the Myers Park teachers. Every member of the Myers Park community can take part in the celebration of Black History Month. Students can show their support by donating or directly supporting local black businesses and entrepreneurs. You can also take a trip to The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture in Charlotte to dive into African American history and culture through its various exhibits.
The MPHS Black Student Union wants its club to be long-lasting, and to do so, they are always looking for dedicated, goal-oriented, organized, and determined individuals to join the club. If anyone is interested, please feel free to reach out to the BSU Instagram @mphs.blackstudentunion to fill out an application and schedule an interview with the BSU executive board.
Williams says, “If you are interested in the Black Student Union, please don’t hesitate to join. This is a fun club, and we don’t have too many meetings, so if you have a busy schedule, meetings won’t be too much of a conflicting issue. We really just want our members to have a good time while being in the club and feel as comfortable as possible around other black students!” Stay on the lookout for the Morning Announcements to stay informed for any upcoming BSU events.