By Emily Evans
The 55th annual fashion show hosted by the Black Student Union was held in the Student Union Auditorium on February 28. It was an event showcasing clothing created by the African American community with the scenes relaying different forms of music.
The fashion show was also an artistic masterpiece representing solidarity. The students marched out one by one in their best outfits with handwritten signs that described different important topics they wished to highlight such as “say No to Senate Bill 1,” “equal opportunity isn’t Radical, it’s Right,” among others
Each student struck poses showing strength in numbers to the room. This was more than a fashion show, it was a statement. The BSU demands to be heard and seen and they showed appreciation for the programs that make them feel safe while on campus.
They want all students to feel welcomed, supported and loved and the main message for the show was that the BSU refuses to remain silent on Senate Bill 1.
“(S.B. 1) is a direct attack on the academic independence that has long been essential to the success of our state’s public higher education system. This bill, which bans diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in higher education, along with curtailing tenure protections and collective bargaining power, sends a chilling message to students, faculty, and businesses that Ohio is not committed to fostering academic and institutional freedom.” State of Ohio Senate website.
The BSU students are demanding that representatives of the University of Toledo sit down to speak with them about things that were promised to the Black Student Union regarding funding and support etc. The students are highlighting the importance of keeping funding available for the DEI programs. Without those programs, they fear that the lack of resources and mentorship opportunities will have a negative future impact on students.
The Black Student Union helps many students feel free to show up as their authentic selves in classes, events, the dorms or for extracurricular activities. These organizations are vital safe havens for many students who need these spaces to feel comfortable while furthering their education.
“One of the most glaring issues with S.B. 1 is its direct impact on Ohio’s competitiveness through a complete ban on DEI programs at universities. Our universities are incubators for talent, innovation, and economic growth.” State of Ohio Senate website.
Majesty Ali (president of the Black student union) said: ”Six scholarships were given away to well deserving students to assist in furthering their education. The issue is the organization on campus that values and hears all students. All students should be informed about efforts being made on policies made regarding them on campus.”
The members of the Black Student Union stated that students should thrive and never be worried about safe spaces or the future of diverse leadership on campus . They hope that they will be heard so the future will be brighter especially for those who are under-represented or from diverse backgrounds.
Said one such student: “The students only want to be treated fairly , supported and feel safe at all times ,not just inside of organizations that were specially created to make them feel included.”
