On Friday, Aug. 15, Manual’s Black Student Union (BSU) hosted the first meeting of the 2025-26 school year. The meeting began with an introduction from the board and an explanation of BSU’s values and plans for the year.
“This year we’re really trying to focus hard on getting involved in the community because I know last year we didn’t go as in-depth,” Vice President Aaron Wornor (11, HSU) said.
Wornor explained that this year BSU is planning to have more of a connection with Louisville’s community. Along with community outreach, BSU provides members with various opportunities, creating a safe space to share personal interests, have serious discussions about inequality and bond with friends.
“I joined BSU because I wanted to be a part of something bigger than myself and be a part of an organization that not only focuses on community service but also educating people on social issues,” President Avery Tandy (12, HSU) said.
Tandy highlighted the importance of being an informed citizen and advocating for equality. BSU builds an environment where members can learn about social justice and educate others. Education plays a significant role in the values of BSU. Certain meetings will include resources for members applying to college, along with discussions about scholarships and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
During the meeting, Principal Dr. Michael Newman and Counselor Dr. Jessika Benson made an appearance to share their support for BSU and student voices. Tandy also emphasized conversation and sharing a person’s voice.
“I always think it’s really important to use your voice and our club kind of helps people build up the confidence and have a safe space to use their voice,” Tandy said.
BSU is a place where students can come together to advocate for themselves and build friendships, providing opportunities for both fun and serious moments. Cristian Evans (12, HSU) expressed he enjoyed participating in “kickball games” and “discussions”. While serious themes are an important component of the BSU experience, there are also opportunities to play games, have fun and be kids. Sporting events, such as the kickball game, give BSU members time to gather together and foster a sense of belonging. This creates a culture of community, which can be appealing to new members.
“I joined BSU because it’s kind of like a community with a bunch of people that have the same goals and desires that you do,” Jayden Stallard (9, HSU) said.
Stallard is a new member of BSU this year and looks forward to being part of the community BSU offers. Through a range of activities and discussions, BSU brings members together to learn more about themselves, each other and the world they are a part of.
The meeting also called attention to a new problem BSU is facing. Although BSU has connected through the Remind app in the past, Kentucky’s new policy, aligning with Senate Bill 181, has caused an end to this line of communication. In the meantime, current members and students interested in joining can follow @dupontmanualbsu_ on Instagram for updates.
Despite the new challenge, BSU will continue to accept new members. The club offers an environment for conversations about injustice and inequality, an outlet to share your voice and educate others and a safe place to meet new people while strengthening friendships. Ultimately, BSU is a strong community in which everyone is welcome.
