The little known organization called the Black Student Union (BSU) at Millikin is actually the oldest minority organization here and has a touching history. It was established in 1968 under the name For Soul Only (F.S.O) for African American students to have their own space since Millikin was, and is, a predominately white campus.

BSUs background is incredibly inspiring. During April 1970, the students gathered in Lower RTUC, which was called the Sub at the time, because they were protesting. Students held a sit-in starting at 6:30 PM until Millikin offered a building on campus for F.S.O to meet with Millikin trustees. With signs reading “No Black House, No Sub” on the windows of Lower RTUC (which was called the Sub at the time), the students stayed until 9 AM the next day when they were told they were allowed to use the lower level of the “Old Gym.”

The current President of BSU, Jahaan Randolph, wishes for BSU to connect to all types of on campus and off campus organizations and for the organization to not focus on negativity. Most importantly Randolph and BSUs goal is that they can be the voice for African American minorities here at Millikin. She also mentioned that she along with BSU in general, wishes that Millikin will begin to understand and value their organization more. BSU truly wishes that if people have questions about the organization that they come to a member of BSU. Randolph explained how the organization does not mind educating those who have questions at all.

Randolph, a Human Services Major with a Criminal Justice minor, joined BSU her sophomore year here. Randolph immediately felt a connection with BSU like no other club or organization had made her feel before. Randolph emphasized how much the organization feels like family to her and how that’s how many of the members feel. As well, Randolph feels like the organization has helped her love herself more as a person yet embrace her culture at the same time. In fact Randolph stated, “being part of BSU has brought my true blackness out.” Not only that, but Randolph feels that BSU has especially helped her embrace her ancestors and the ancestors of the organization.

This year is Randolph’s first year as the president of BSU and she reiterates that being part of BSU is a big commitment not only as a simple member but especially as president. Randolph actually mentions how the position is like a 24/7 job for her.

BSU has events every month but one of their most popular and well known events is the Ebony Ball. It is a favorite of Randolph’s as well. The Ebony Ball started in the 70s because African American students did not have the opportunity to win Homecoming King and Queen. The Ebony Ball allowed the students to crown their own King and Queen, but they actually titled them Mister and Miss Ebony instead.

The criteria for the Ebony Ball Mister and Miss are quite strict as well for the best interest of the organization. Firstly, the candidates must not be graduating the next year since they will be the “face” of BSU if they win. As well, the candidate must also be very dedicated and must participate frequently in the organization.

One of the most interesting experiences at the last Ebony Ball BSU hosted in 2015 was the guest speaker. Every year BSU finds a guest speaker for the ball, but last year a former member of BSU, when it was known as F.S.O, spoke to the group. Randolph mentioned how it was amazing to hear the story from one of the first people who made this organization happen.

The free event will be held in Lower RTUC April 30th this semester and the theme is “Black Tie.” BSU hopes that all students join and experience a little of what BSU is like. BSU also wants to emphasize that the club is open to absolutely everyone and they are always looking for new members.

The Black Student Union here at Millikin is not only the oldest minority organization on campus, but it is arguably the strongest. The organization is rich in fascinating and powerful history that allows its members to be inspired by. As much as people deny it, racism is still prominent in the world today. Organizations like BSU, which is open to students of all races, is simply a place that can give some students a place to embrace their culture.