Inspired to create a safe space on campus for other Black students to have a sense of community, sophomore Ekundayo Davies started the Black Student Union, or BSU, during his freshman year.
Following an incident in the lunch line where Davies was racially profiled by MVHS students, he reported the situation to administration, who then encouraged Davies to start a club to educate others and prevent similar situations from occurring again. Since then, Davies has grown the BSU to a club of around 15-20 members.
Rather than giving lectures or presentations, Davies believes that simply providing an open space for students to talk is the most effective way to educate students.
“We sit and talk a lot,” Davies said. “Most clubs, especially culture clubs, focus on doom and gloom when they talk about things, but we try to keep a lot of positivity going. I talk about things happening in Black culture and things that are relevant.”
Additionally, the BSU offers opportunities for its members to participate in various field trips. Davies most vividly remembers last year’s field trip to West Valley Community College's Black Student Summit.
“We had the whole group there and we got to meet really cool people,” Davies said. “Being in a community with a lot of other Black students meant a lot, and it was a fun place to be in, and was a great cultural moment.”
Although Davies was initially scared that not many people would join the BSU due to the small number of Black students on campus, he quickly found that many allies found an interest in the club.
“Now we're seeing a club with more allies than Black students themselves,” Davies said. “The club really is just people who like being part of the Black culture and like sitting in the African American space.”
Davies emphasizes that everyone can join, regardless of their ethnicity. With more people from various backgrounds attending meetings, Davies believes the discussions are more interesting and engaging.
“Regardless of who you are, the viewpoint you hold is valuable, especially in a space like ours,” Davies said. “Especially because we're also sharing our viewpoints, I think that's really valuable. The ability to be vulnerable in a space where you may not normally be the minority creates a space for other minorities to feel more comfortable.”
