While February is often associated with an abundance of hearts and love, it signifies the importance of black history for many and is a time to celebrate and acknowledge black culture worldwide. At Hoban, Black History Month is significant for the students actively involved in our Black Student Union (BSU).

I spoke with BSU President Gabby Falconer and Vice President RiQuell Grigsby about the importance of Black History Month, how BSU opens up discussions of their rich heritage and how they utilize resources in the community. “I started BSU my freshman year, and I didn’t really know what it was about,” Falconer stated. “Over time, I started to understand that BSU is all about representing my culture and helping the students that look like me thrive and feel comfortable without fear of being dismissed.” She goes on to say how Hoban provides events and opportunities for BSU to show its culture all throughout this month. “We have been able to place different parts of our culture all around the school through our soul food sales, bake sales, and announcements every morning,” Grigsby added. 

Formed in 2017, BSU is a thriving community comprising over 70 black students who actively seek to connect with one another. Their monthly meetings feature speakers from the local community addressing how students can leverage their black excellence to make a positive impact. Additionally, through figures like Tammy Monroe, the organization actively provides scholarship opportunities, fostering connections and networking that may lead students to their desired career paths. While exploring their culture remains a top priority, the essence of BSU lies in the friendships forged over the years. RiQuell reflected, “While I always had the basketball girls to lean on, being part of BSU has significantly boosted my confidence, knowing my people stand behind me wherever I go.”

Despite their success, BSU faces a pressing challenge—the scarcity of meeting space. Recent events at Hoban have limited their meetings this year, but the group is actively working to organize more gatherings in the future. As they discuss their biggest struggle of finding suitable spaces around the school, the need for available meeting spaces to expand their activities becomes apparent.

There is no doubt that BSU has big plans for the future, as they want to continue having rallies with neighboring schools with their own versions of BSU. Schools such as St. Vincent St. Mary, Firestone High School, and Copley High School all communicate with one another to compare programs and explore different ways that they can grow. 

You can look for future BSU events @hoban_bsu on Instagram, and make sure to look out for posters around the school to see how you can offer your support!