I got the opportunity to talk to Julaine Phillips (junior, medical laboratory science) this week about her thoughts on Black History Month and how she chooses to celebrate this time. As the vice president of Andrews’ Black Student Christian Forum, we get a short introduction into the events that the club has planned for our students. It looks like this month will be packed with lots of fun activities to join, from weekly co-curriculars and worship to a banquet where you can dress up and dance the night away.
What events can we look forward to from BSCF this month at Andrews?
This month we can look forward to so many different events presented by BSCF! We will have short courses diving into Black culture each Tuesday, as well as IMPACT each Friday evening. Every Tuesday co-curricular will be different, so this week (Feb 7) we’ll have a short course showcasing African culture, and in the following weeks we’ll be teaching about Afro-Latino, Afro-Caribbean, and African-American culture. We are also looking forward to this month's spirit week, Valentine’s Day fundraiser, Soul Lounge, The Dating Game, and of course the annual banquet.
Is there a recurring event that you’re particularly excited about? Why?
In particular, I am very excited for the banquet this year. The venue is really beautiful and the theme is solid. I can't wait to dress up and have a great time with my peers. It’s definitely one of the most anticipated events of the year.
What does Black History Month mean to you? What makes it meaningful?
For me personally, I think Black History Month should be every day! But during this time, I like to look back at how far we have come as a community and really take the time to appreciate those who have come before us. Black History Month is a time to celebrate and put emphasis on Black excellence.
How do you like to celebrate this month?
During Black History Month, I like to dedicate my time to learning even more about noteworthy Black figures and their contributions. I also like to support Black businesses. It’s really a time where I honor the legacies of those who came before me.
What are some of BSCF’s overarching goals for this semester?
One of the overarching goals for this semester is to continue to provide a comfortable aura for the Black community here at Andrews. We’d love to continue to create an environment where they feel safe and loved on this campus – safe, loved, represented, and seen.
What would you say are some of the best parts of this club?
I honestly don’t know if I could choose the best part—all of the things that BSCF offers at once are what makes it so great. I guess my personal favorite part is the events that are put on for people to attend. We always have a good time.
Where can students best reach out to BSCF?
If you’d like to reach out to BSCF, please do follow us on Instagram @aubscf!! Our DMS are open, and we’d love to see you at our upcoming events.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.