Image Courtesy of BSA
As Pepperdine moves toward more diversity, inclusion and cultural competence, the Black Student Association (BSA) is here and thrilled to begin its a monthly column in the Graphic. We hope to use this space as an avenue to share our perspective on topics that are of importance to us, especially topics that impact our lives as students at Pepperdine.
BSA is primarily made up of a collection of students who identify as Black or African American. According to our Constitution, an integral part of our purpose as an organization is to “promote unity and cultural awareness.” Over the years, BSA’s main goals have been uniting students of color by providing them a safe space for conversation, and working to educate the Pepperdine community on African American history and culture. Although the name suggests that the organization is for Black students, BSA has always and will always engage students, faculty and staff from other cultures as well.
This column is a way for our members to take part in often neglected conversations as well as offer insight on the University’s shift in social climate. As we move forward as an organization, we keep in mind Pepperdine’s complicated history regarding race, as well as the various experiences and concerns vocalized by students and faculty last year involving racial profiling in the Malibu area, a blackface incident and a series of racist Yik Yak posts.
We are here. We are here not only to challenge the status quo but also to encourage others to continue crucial conversations and take action regarding equality and justice. While talking about these subjects may be tough at first, we hope that this will stimulate positive progress. In addition to providing an alternative view to the typical Pepperdine experience, these articles will represent our narrative, strengthening the voices of this movement and ensuring that details are presented to the Pepperdine community with full transparency.
Through these monthly segments composed by members of our Executive Board, prepare to be enlightened by stepping into our shoes and gaining a new perspective on Pepperdine and the world at large. Stay tuned for a year of real talk, second thoughts and so much more.
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