The 2020 Black Student Union Presentation offers entertaining education

Senior+and+BSU+president+Victoria+Johnson+speaks+at+the+presentation.

Lhana Philavong

Senior and BSU president Victoria Johnson speaks at the presentation.

For some SCHS students, the significance of Black History Month is still not fully understood. Luckily, on Feb. 14 the Black Student Union’s informational presentation with various acts of dance, songs and poems, was an interactive way to learn and grasp the importance of black culture.

For sophomore and BSU event coordinator Elon Woldesilassie, the presentation was not only a way for others to understand more about black culture but to also promote their club.

“(The purpose) is to have more exposure to our club,” Woldesilassie said. “And it shows that more people, not only black people, could be in it.”

Like Woldesilassie, sophomore and BSU secretary Justice Evans, believes that the purpose of the presentation was to help students receive less known information about black history. Evans said that in comparison to last year, this year’s presentation was less hectic.

“Last year, everyone was kind of stressed out, but now we’re kind of chill,” Evans said.

Freshman Jada Roper was a part of the club’s dance routine. Roper believed that the presentation was not only helpful but entertaining as well.

“The purpose of the presentation is to spread awareness of our culture and basically just make everyone hyped up,” said Roper.

One part of the presentation that showcased black culture in an engaging way was the stepping routine. Freshman Jamal Howard also performed in the dance.

“Stepping is making music with your feet and dancing at the same time,” Howard said. “Back in the day, ancestors used their feet to dance since slave owners always told them to stop singing.”

While practicing the routine, Roper said that nailing certain dance moves and parts kept her engaged in the process. Besides the fun of dancing, she also appreciated her entertaining team.

“Everyone’s just really funny and fun to be around so that’s probably the best part,” said Roper.

Roper hopes that their audience left the presentation more educated and knowledgeable about black culture.

“I’m hoping that it (the presentation) just kind of informs everyone that people like black people are to be respected,” Roper said. “We can have fun, but we’re also really just a great group of people.”