For over 50 years, February has been celebrated as Black History Month. This month recognizes the rich heritage of African Americans and the contributions they have made to shape our nation. While it is important to honor the past and present triumphs of the African American community during Black History Month, it is also important to make room for community, conversation, and empowerment year round. So, we’ve compiled a list of BU’s Black Student organizations doing just that.
UMOJA
BU’s Black Student Union, UMOJA, sets out to create a healthy environment for Black students and all individuals who are interested in Black culture. The name Umoja means “unity” in Swahili, and the club lives up to its name by actively uniting students, staff and alumni through educational, social, and community outreach programming. UJOMA also seeks to provide the community with honest, trustworthy and transparent leadership that is adaptive, relevant and receptive to the needs and desires of the general body.
Sisters United
Founded in 2011, Sisters United empowers young Black and Brown women at Boston University through mentorship, on-campus events, and off-campus outings. Whether it’s by hosting a fun night of bonding over games, or holding sessions to discuss important issues like sexual health and identity, Sisters United helps students form lifelong friendships and community.
Brothers United
Fellowship program for Brothers United hosts weekly social events, study nights, and leadership workshops for BU’s men of color. The group works to strengthen bonds between men of color so that they can, as Howard Thurman would say, “be at home everywhere.”
Boston University African Student Association
BU’s African Student Association (ASO) celebrates the diversity of Africa as one. ASO’s aim is to serve as a cultural, social, political, economic and humanitarian support network for the African and non-African students at BU. They are continuously working to bring the African experience to the larger BU population through education, music, dance, food, and discussion.
National Society of Black Engineers
The National Society of Black Engineers aims to increase the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally, and positively impact the community. BU’s NSBE chapter is one of more than 600 chapters in the National Society of Black Engineers across the United States.
BIPOC Mental Health Collective
Born out of a petition initiative for therapeutic representation at Boston University, The Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) Mental Health Collective serves as a safe space for many on campus. BIPOCMHC actively helps racial minority students by sharing mental health resources and creating a healthy environment to share experiences.
Students of Caribbean Ancestry
As Boston University’s only Caribbean cultural organization, SOCA strives to promote the awareness of the West Indian and Caribbean heritage. Their goal is to inform the BU community of issues relating to and affecting the Caribbean through an array of discussions and events. SOCA also uplifts unique aspects of Caribbean culture including history, food, current events, and the arts.
Black Business Student Association
Boston University’s Black Business Student Association (BBSA) is an active resource on campus that bridges the opportunity gap for students of color through professional development and educational programming. Undergraduate members gain a breadth of career advice, corporate experience, and a supportive community network of current students, alumni, professionals, and corporate partners.
Boston University Nigerian Students Association
Creating a home away from home, BU NSA helps foster a safe environment for students to share their love and appreciation for Nigerian culture. It also serves as a space to educate members on issues that Nigeria is currently facing in hopes of promoting social activism within the community.
The Block
Originally created as a social media effort to represent the Black student experience at BU—a predominantly white institution—The Block now also serves as a “home away from home” for its members. A space for the unhindered expression of Black and brown joy, The Block hosts photoshoots, powerpoint nights, study sessions, and hangouts.
You can support these student organizations by following them on social media, giving your expertise to members, or offering support through club donations. If you’re interested in mentoring members of these organizations or others, BU Connects can help you find students who could benefit from your experience.