BSU Hosts Afrofuturism-Themed Library Overnight

The event was carefully curated by members of the BSU in coordination with Librarian Ms. Kaykeel Dillard. Myriad activities took place throughout the evening, including language workshops, performances, cultural crafts such as waist bead making and woodcarving, an art exhibit, movie screenings, and more. The event also offered opportunities for discussions about cancel culture, white fragility, respecting boundaries and other cultures, and the use of racial slurs. Panels and training were also hosted, including a Black Business Network panel, teacher panel, and DEI training with Leslie King. 

“I hope that the persons that were in attendance were able to take a step inside what it means to be Black. Whether this was through listening in on a conversation, learning some of the language, crafting cultural bodily adornments such as waist beads, or gaining an understanding on sensitive topics such as hair, slurs, etc.,” said BSU president Mikaili Madden ‘24. “I hope that people in attendance gained an understanding of the significant impact that Black people have on the community and that they feel more comfortable in their newfound ability to embrace that impact rather than shy away from it due to fear of appropriation.”

Faculty, staff, and friends provided a wonderful meal for participants to enjoy, featuring a variety of soul food dishes. Attendees were then invited to spend the night in Lee Library for more fun and time together as a community. 

The BSU is led by Madden and co-vice presidents Hanna Parsonian ‘24 and Sophia Taylor '24 and faculty sponsors by Dillard, Mrs. Deborah Glymph, and Ms. Christa Anderson.

Pictures of the event are available on the School’s SmugMug.