At Shadow Ridge High School, the Black Student Union (BSU) is more than just a club. BSU stands as a pivotal club dedicated to fostering a supportive and empowering environment for Black students. BSU stands as more than just a club, it stands as a community for cultural celebration, academic enrichment, and community engagement. BSU provides a safe space where students can connect, share experiences, and address issues relevant to their lives.
BSU is deeply involved in promoting cultural awareness throughout the school. For example, BSU holds meetings for students who would like to know more about how BSU plays a big role at Shadow Ridge. Through events like Black History Month celebrations, the club has participated in school events to not only educate the student body but also introduce a sense of pride and identity among the students. BSU also focuses on academic success, leadership, and making changes throughout the community.
During her first year of being a part of BSU, sophomore Mylah Barker has already made drastic changes throughout the community. Barker’s dedication to the club has also inspired her to do more for the community. Barker isn’t originally from Nevada, she is from Jackson, Mississippi. When Barker moved to the west, it was a really big culture shock, since she didn’t think there were a lot of Black students. Barker wanted to reconnect with her culture, and find a sense of belonging. Barker is also very passionate about African American culture and the history of her ancestors. Barker wants change for the community. She believes that if students want to see change, students have to be direct and straight, for students to never feel interrupted or silenced when using their voices to speak about problems around the community.
Barker highlights the importance of how the club highlights the major problems for Black students and how to amend it. Barker believes BSU is a vital organization that enriches the high school experience for Black students, cultural understanding, and empowers its members to excel academically and contribute meaningfully to their community
“I’m just very passionate about African American culture because it is severely sacred and it should be protected at all costs,” Barker shares.
Beyond the club, students in BSU go on field trips to learn more about African American culture and the rich and diverse contributions of Black people throughout history.
Senior Benjamin Mosley shares, “Going on field trips, it’s fun, there is so much out there for the Black community, it’s inspiring.”
Shadow Ridge High School’s BSU is more than just a club, it’s a family that supports, uplifts, and empowers its members to reach their full potential.
