The Black Student Alliance, the political and social voice for black students at the University, will workthis year to attract new attention to their organization.
Among the events planned for the first semester include the return of a student-run general-interest magazine.
BSA president and second-year Architecture student Tyler Scriven said that black students should be encouraged to join groups that have traditionally been dominated by whites.
"I've talked to black first years who say they have nowhere to go and nothing to do," Scriven said. "We need to have more events so that these students can address their concerns."
Second-year College student Daisy Lundy, the BSA director of networking, expressed interest in providing an outlet for first-year students to voice their thoughts and fears as they acclimate to University life.
"We want to have a forum where first years can express their issues, and talk about things they may have seen but don't like," Lundy said.
The first meeting intended for first years is a dinner this Wednesday, Sept. 4, at 5 p.m. in the O-Hill Conference Room.
The BSA also will be involved with the "Lyrics Lounge," scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 19.Lundy said they would probably arrange several skits as a prelude to the event and have BSA representatives present to answer any questions students may have.
Second-year College student Spencer Pilgrim, the BSA's director of historic records, said his main focus for the first semester is to reinstate a formerly defunct black magazine called Pride. Currently accepting submissions, he said he will hold a general interest meeting soon.
The first issue should come out in October, Pilgrim said. He hopes that Pride will eventually become a monthly publication.
"It will be a magazine to encompass all of the black talent at the University, including art, poetry, stories, current events and a special historic section," he said.
Dean of African American Affairs M. Rick Turner said the BSA, which is independent from the Office of African American Affairs, holds the potential to promote the diversification of all University groups.
"First years need to feel hopeful that there are opportunities in the University community for them," Turner said. "The Black Student Alliance can encourage blacks to get involved in all aspects of University life, especially in the major organizations."
Scriven emphasized the importance of unity both within the black population and within the entire University community.
"The Black Student Alliance is an outlet for blacks and others to speak out and have their concerns addressed, so it is up to us to create that environment for people," he said.
The BSA will hold its first meeting Tuesday, Sept. 10, at 7 p.m. in the Student Activities Building. The BSA meets at this time on the first Tuesday of every month.
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