Black Student Union

Founding of BSU

Black student organizations go back to 1937 when the Council of Negro Students appealed for change at the University of Minnesota. Over time the name has had many changes reflecting the experience of Black students. In 1966 under the leadership of Scotty Stone, Students for Racial Progress (STRAP), was formed. In 1967, STRAP changed its name to Afro American Action Committee (AAAC) under the leadership of Rose Mary Freeman and Horace Huntley. Armed with seven demands they led the Morrill Hall takeover for equality.

In 1987 AAAC changed to Africana Student Cultural Center with new space in Coffman Memorial Union. Finally in 2003 it became the Black Student Union (BSU).

Mission

The BSU shall strive to create an intellectual, cultural, and social environment for students of the University of Minnesota through awareness, education and action. The Black Student Union was founded as a means for Black students to unify. Through BSU, Black students at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities came to realize there was a need for them to come together as a group to discuss several issues faced by Black college students. Our driving goals to address those issues are as follows:

Further Black awareness at University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Advocate for Black students on and off campus
Create successful communication with Black student organizations on and off campus
Make significant contributions in the community
Help ensure a successful academic and social college experience for Black students

Listen to Audio

BSU Murals