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This page was created by Jourdin Barber and is dedicated to the Black Student Union at W&J. It gives a brief overview of what the BSU is, represents, and aims to accomplish.
Building Bridges
Despite its name, the Black Student Union (BSU) is an all inclusive club where anyone interested or curious about African-American culture can learn about and enjoy African American customs and traditions. Though it focuses primarily on African American culture, the BSU and its members also embrace and attempt to learn about other cultures. In fact, the BSU and ACA (Asian Cultural Association) have grown to become "sister organizations": going on club outings together, throwing joint parties, and simply supporting each other in club activities.
Our Mission
Established in 1991, the BSU strives to foster a sense of community among all students of African decent at Washington & Jefferson College by promoting an educational, social and cultural venue. It promotes recognition of African American students on W&J's campus in addition to being an avenue that will enact positive social change within the Washington County community. BSU's mission is to stimulate the intellectual, political, cultural, and social growth of students through enriching programs such the as Multicultural Lecture Series, the Gospel Explosion, leadership and mentoring programs, and community service. Above all, the BSU strives to create an atmosphere where all students can engage in critical dialogue on issues that impact the African-American community and cultural diversity in general.
-- BSU Mission Statement
Words that Guide Us
Human Family 
I note the obvious differences
in the human family.
Some of us are serious,
some thrive on comedy.
Some declare their lives are lived
as true profundity,
and others claim they really live
the real reality.
The variety of our skin tones
can confuse, bemuse, delight,
brown and pink and beige and purple,
tan and blue and white.
I've sailed upon the seven seas
and stopped in every land.
I've seen the wonders of the world,
not yet one common
I know ten thousand women
called Jane and Mary Jane,
but I've not seen any two
who really were the same.
Mirror twins are different
although their features jibe,
and lovers think quite different thoughts
while lying side by side.
We love and lose in China,
we weep on England's moors,
and laugh and moan in Guinea,
and thrive on Spanish shores.
We seek success in Finland,
are born and die in Maine.
In minor ways we differ,
in major we're the same.
I note the obvious differences
between each sort and type,
but we are more alike, my friends
than we are unalike.
We are more alike, my friends,
than we are unalike.
We are more alike, my friends,
than we are unalike.
Poem by Maya Angelou
Celebration of Soul: The Gospel Explosion
Every February for the past six years, the Olin Fine Arts Center has been electrified with vibrant sounds of jubilation and praise at the BSU's Gospel Explosion.
Established in 2001 as a celebration of African American spirituality and religious practices, the Gospel Explosion is and has continuously been an extraordinary experience for all involved, especially those who have never witnessed a gospel concert.
The evening, which begins with a soulful invocation, is very much like an impromptu church service. Students, faculty, and member of the community join together at Olin to share a spiritual experience and enjoy impassioned melodies, riveting testimonies, and expressive dance.
Performers come from churches across the country and several even hail from local churches in Washington, including Nazareth Baptist Church and Saint Paul A.M.E Church. In recent years, performances have become more diverse with the inclusion of dancers, poets, rappers, and even mimes.
As the BSU's biggest event of the year, the Gospel Explosion is also one of our best catered events. Event-goers are treated to a succulent appetizer platter that includes campus rarities such as Swedish meatballs, coconut chicken tenders, and all the fruit punch and water a person could ask for. It's practically a buffet!
Given its exciting atmosphere and uplifting nature, the Gospel Explosion is quickly shaping up to be one of the highlights of the W&J event calendar. With continued improvements and larger performances it is sure to continue to broaden its audience and establishing its legacy.
We hope to see you there!
A True Exchange of Cultures
Disha Chauhan describes her experiences as a BSU member
Black Student Union. Brown Student Union. It really is all the same to me.
Being Indian American puts me in the unique position at W&J where there isn't really one group that caters specifically to my culture. But that is part of the reason I came to W&J - to learn about other people and teach them about me.
When I first heard of the BSU I was kind of apprehensive and reacted like most people do on campus. You know, people say things like 'it's only for Black people' or 'I can't join because I'm a Republican.' It sounds crazy, but those are some of the things I've actually heard and thought. Well, not the Republican part but you know what I mean - it was a process for me.
Anyway, I finally joined the BSU as a result of a little reality check from my friends. They all know that I pride myself on being accepting and knowledgeable of other cultures and so it was strange to them that I wasn't involved in as many cultural clubs as possible. I honestly wasn't sure what was holding me back so I took their advice and went to a BSU meeting.
Ever since then, there has been no turning back for me. I must say, I am one of the most active members in the club. From attending regular meetings to monthly outings, I stay involved. And maybe what has kept me involved is the friendships that I have made. The Vice President of the BSU and I have a running joke that we're going to establish a clothing line, B&B, which stands for Black and Brown.
Looking back, I can honestly say that I gained much more from joining the BSU than I anticipated. I found new friends, learned about a different culture, and got to share my culture. Oh yeah, I got a possible clothing line out of it too!
United We Stand, Divided...
Join the BSU! With your help we can continue our exciting campus activities
Every month the BSU takes a break from the stress of classes by going on a group outing. Past outings have included ice skating and going to the movies.
Everyone loves a home cooked meal and the BSU is no exception! So during the holidays we take time to prepare dinner together and simply enjoy each others company.
The BSU is committed to both the W&J and Greater Washington County communities. We actively participate in campus wide events such as the Street Fair and Light Up Night. We also host and participate in many events with citizens of Washington County.
Become a Member
To become apart of the BSU family, you can look for us at the campus-wide activities fair at the beginning of each semester, or simply stop by the HUB's Fireplace Lounge on a Wednesday at 7pm for a meeting. We're looking forward to meeting you!
Links to Our History
W&J Links for Prospective Students:
External Links Concerning African American Culture:
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