Black History Month is a time to celebrate, honor, and educate us on Black culture and their contributions. Every February, Diversity Equity and Inclusion and Hill Black Student Union hosted events for community members to learn and appreciate Black culture and contributions with fun and informative activities.

Hill’s Black Student Union was involved with student groups on campus that may not be highly represented in most cases.  In the beginning of February, DEI and BSU collaborated to give out Black History Month wristbands. They are planning to continue this collaboration with events throughout February, including handing out customized shirts designed by student advocates.

Hill DEI member Marcus Smith ’24 worked to coordinate events, fundraisers, and information sessions on campus for underrepresented minorities. He touched a bit more on these events where one of the goals is to bring more awareness to these groups. He explained that the 50 shirts made will be sold for twenty dollars and the profits will be given to the local National Association for the Advancement of Colored People chapter. “We also have a pop-up shop type event where all people involved in the shirts will be hanging out in the Warner Center on Friday, February 17,” Smith explained.

However, this year seems to be a bit quiet and the reason for this, Smith explained, “is because a lot of activities are voluntary and therefore won’t have attendance from everyone on campus or at least most.”

“We advocate for issues important to the Black community such as racial justice, cultural awareness and representation in the Hill School. Participating in BSU events and activities can help students better understand Black history, culture, and perspectives and that’s why we welcome everyone to join us,” BSU member Gavin Mpiana ’23 said.

February was filled with the opportunity to learn more about Black culture, both inside and outside of Hill, to be loud — not quiet— and to have fun.

“Participating in BSU events can raise awareness about important issues, promote inclusivity and support for Black students and other underrepresented groups on campus,” Mpiana concluded.