How Colgan is celebrating Black History Month

By: Kingston Mills

April 3, 2024 

   Colgan is recognizing Black History Month throughout February. The celebration is led by the Black Student Union (BSU) of the school. The BSU is a group focused on highlighting the African American community. This month, they’re contributing with social media presentations, community events, guest speakers and daily announcements paying homage to iconic black figures. The organization goes above and beyond to focus on Black history. 

 For years, the school has supported the Black Student Union. It has a tremendous impact on the black community of the school by providing a space for discussion and learning. In addition, the club further reinforces the unity among students of all backgrounds.  

   Vice President, Denise Kamgaing said, “I joined BSU because I wanted to connect with my community at Colgan and learn more about my culture.”    

Kamgaing said that the BSU benefits Black students by supplying education about history and stereotypes. During Black History Month, the BSU makes a prime effort every day to enlighten Colgan students on diversity with their outspoken awareness. This is one of the many positive impacts the BSU has on the school. 

Public Relations officer of BSU, Senior Jada Carboo, said, “Black history month means celebrating my blackness. It is important because our history has been covered by the media. So, this is the time to show our culture and history.”   

 “The goals for the club this year is to show black people we aren’t limited, host events and represent at school”, Kamgaing said.      

  An event BSU has planned is a video meeting with astrophysicist, Dr. Alvine Kamaha from the University of California Los Angeles at the end of the month. Kamaha is a native of Cameroon, a country in Central Africa. 

  “BSU is a sanctuary for black people”, Carboo explained. “If you ever feel left out, you can have people like you.”  

The month-long holiday can be traced back to 1915. It was created to highlight black excellence and focus on African American history. This is a significant time of the year. The commemoration has grown outside of just the United States to global recognition.  

Black History month began as just a week of celebration, before the Civil Rights movement transcended it to a full month. The chosen month of February is because Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass’ birthdays reside in that month, according to Front Ridge Community College.  

The BSU showcases the strength and beauty of black people throughout this month with their continuous acknowledgement. The announcements, speakers, and posts provide recognition for the importance of Black History month.