Access and Diversity Center Spotlight: Black Student Union
When asked to describe the Black Student Union in one word, Vice President Betty Flomo, said, “Extraordinary. (That’s) the idea behind BSU and the goals. The work that we try to do here on campus is so important.”
BSU is one of the many clubs sponsored by Utah State University’s Access and Diversity Center. The club works to bring awareness to campus through events and weekly meetings. For many like Flomo, the club has provided a fun community and safe space.
Flomo was first invited to join the BSU by two girls coming up to her in the Marketplace on campus. The same story can be told for Nanyal Rout, the BSU president.
Rout was approached by two girls her freshman year to attend and has been involved ever since.
“I found there was people like me and we could talk about certain issues,” Rout said.
BSU She became of member of the executive council, and then worked her way to President. Rout has worked hard this year to make a impact on USU.
“This year, compared to other years, has been one that has stirred people up. We had Angela Davis come and other activists speak this year. It had made a lot of people be like ‘oh this is still happening,’” Rout said.
The Black Student Union has put on other events such as Soul Food, Night of Resistance and Blackouts. They have faced some opposition while holding these events.
“It’s funny with these people. It’s so much easier to bash people behind a computer screen, not in person. The reason why we are having these events is to show support. It’s not an attack,” Rout said.
Opposition has not deterred the club from having a lot of success in their events. Soul Food was one of their most attended events that showcased the club and what they have done.
Khiro Robinson, a club member, said, “Soul Food 2018 was great. The individuals that are a part of the group really contributed. They were selfless in the effort they put in. I’m thankful for the members, they made it the best event.”
Aside from large formal events, the group enjoys getting together and doing small activities. They recently went to “Black Panther” together, commonly hang out on the Taggart Student Center third floor having game nights and attend other USU events together.
BSU “We love attending events together. Usually all the multicultural groups are there. Everytime we link up it is lit. Friendships over the years has been one of my favorite things about this club,” Rout said.
BSU has provided a place and support group for all its members.
“We are like a family. Black Student Union has actually made me stay at USU. Its improved my grades and mental well being because it brought me friends,” Flomo said.
In a place where the majority of students are white, it can be comforting for diverse students to find others that are similar to them.
“BSU is like a support group outside of school. It is kind of discouraging not seeing anyone around that looks like me. Most of my classes I’m the only black person,” Robinson said, “I think BSU doesn’t only provide support and voice for black people — we have non black members. We provide comfort for everyone. It is a place where we can talk about experiences. We can all relate. It is important that we have diversity in BSU. It’s important that BSU has lots of members.”
BSU hopes to continue growing a presence on campus and gain more members in the future. The club meetings are held Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. on the third floor of the TSC floor. All are welcome to attend.
BSU “We are very welcoming, We like new people to share new experiences. We like to find ways to relate to people and make people feel comfortable. And we throw some awesome events,” Robinson said.
More information on the BSU and their social media links can be found here.
“You don’t have to be black. We are really nice. If you need somewhere to come hang out, BSU is amazing for that. We are trying to create black culture awareness. We are more than just a color,” Flomo said.
— shelby.black@aggiemail.usu.edu
@shelbsterblack