Black Student Union Creates a Space for Connection and Representation at School.

The Black Student Union at Independence High School continues to make a meaningful impact by creating a safe, inclusive space where students can connect, express themselves, and celebrate Black culture. Led by Regina Moultrie, the club focuses on community, representation, and student empowerment.

 “I’ve always believed in creating spaces where students feel seen and empowered,” said  Moultrie. “When I was asked to host BSU, I didn’t hesitate. I wanted to help these students grow into confident leaders and build a strong, supportive community,” she also said.

BSU members Mia Starks and Maddie Hopson joined the club looking for connection and understanding.  For them, BSU represents more than just a student organization, it’s a family. Stark stated, “I joined BSU because I wanted to be part of a community where I could really feel understood.” Hopson added on, “It’s a place where I can be myself without having to explain myself or hold back.”

Despite a slower year, the club recently hosted an open class presentation talking about African American historical figures and moments that shaped the world. Members of BSU are hoping to organize more activities that foster awareness and cultural appreciation.

Hopson explained, “BSU helps by starting real conversations.”  She also stated, “We make people more aware of different cultures and perspectives, and that brings everyone closer. It’s not just for Black students, it’s for anyone who wants to learn and grow.”

Ms. Moultrie shared that one of the club’s main goals this year is to get more people, making sure students know BSU is open to everyone and not an African American group only. She also hopes to increase collaboration with other student organizations to strengthen unity across the school.

Like many clubs, BSU has faced challenges, mostly in getting new members to join. However, students have taken action to recruit friends and peers to spread awareness.

 “With the help of students, they asked their friends to spread the word and we ended up receiving more people,” said Ms. Moultrie.

For both the host and students, the importance of BSU goes beyond club meetings; it’s about empowerment and belonging.

 “It gives us a voice,” said Starks. “Sometimes it’s easy to feel unseen at school, but BSU makes sure we’re heard,” she also stated.

Ms. Moultrie stated that having BSU on campus is essential for fostering involvement.

 “Representation matters,” she said. “Students need to see that their voices count and that their culture is valued. BSU reminds everyone that inclusion isn’t just a word,  it’s something we actively create.”

Ms Moultrie and the members said BSU is more than just meetings. It’s about having a community and meeting new people. Starks stated, “It gives us a voice,” said Starks. “Sometimes it’s easy to feel unseen at school, but BSU makes sure we’re heard.”

Ms. Moultrie said that having BSU on campus is important for making school involved. “Representation matters,” she said. “Students need to see that their voices count and that their culture is valued. BSU reminds everyone that family isn’t just a word, it’s something we actually have to create,” she had also stated