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Is there still a need for the Black Student Movement?
By Brigida Mack
One of the biggest organizations on campus is also one of the
most controversial. Some say the Black Student Movement is no longer
needed. I sat down with a few members of the BSM to find out if
there’s any movement left.
BSM Adivser Dr. Acrhie Ervin said, “By design, they try to at
least serve as a hub for black students."
Founded in 1969, the BSM began as a haven for black students.
Today the BSM is more of an outlet for Black culture and campus
unity.
Kristi Booker, President of the BSM, said, “We are an organization
that does help to empower students and does help to provide students
a voice and we always have the interest of students and the community
in mind."
“I also see a more willingness of students to be more meaningfully
engaged by people in the university structure that have a means
of addressing these issues," said Ervin.
BSM members attribute those changes to BSM president Kristi Booker.
“If your leadership is strong and motivating you to do things
on campus and to participate in the BSM then you will," said Cultural
Diversity committee chair Ndidi Okeke.
BSM Vice President Brad Picot on what he admires most about Booker.
“What I think it really comes down to about Kristi is getting
people hype about stuff."
Members of the Black Student movement agree that the campus may
view them negatively.
Carmen Scott, Executive Assistant of the BSM says, "I think they
think we’re an unnecessary organization and that we have no purpose
anymore."
“The words 'black student movement' are very powerful language
and people might find that intimidating," says Booker.
But the BSM would like to change the way the campus views them.
“I’d like the campus not view the BSM as being so exclusive and
not just for African-Americans. The BSM is about unity and not just
about the unity of black students," says Picot.
The BSM has a general body meeting every Wednesday at 5:30. Members
invite all students to come find out what the MOVEMENT is all about.
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