Clarissa C. Campbell (284)

Every year at Central, the African American Student Union (AASU) hosts its showcase during Black History Month. These displays are important as they highlight and represent Black culture both inside and outside Central’s community and can publicize the remarkable history of African Americans. It’s commendable that AASU has previously used this platform to spread awareness regarding the struggles faced by the Black community. Contrary to prior showcases, AASU’s 2024 performance will be taking a different approach. With their new plan, the club hopes to diversify and shift the perspective of the African American experience. AASU is striving to make Central aware not only of Black history but also how that history has impacted today’s culture. The club intends to emphasize the ways by which African Americans have been able to cultivate a unique, rich culture through creative expression, including art, music, media, poetry, and dance, despite intense historical adversities. It is fundamental to represent all the aspects that arise in this progressive culture. 

  AASU is eager to present the multitude of things they have been working on, particularly highlighting the brand new subsection of the organization. The media team’s objective is to capture the behind-the-scenes of AASU. Each member works diligently to shed light on the dedication that makes AASU’s creative factors come to life. Ali Willams (284), founder of AASU Media, says that he felt inspired by Beyoncés representation of black culture in her 2019 film Homecoming. Willams states that he “want[s] to showcase the joy that goes into this. It’s hard work [AASU puts] into this, but it’s fun…everyone is here because they want to be here.” Many members of the group share the same sentiments. Media group member, Kathir Gordon (286) said that he was “grateful” to be a part of the AASU group, as he truly felt the importance and belonging in “being a part of something that’s [created] by Black students [intended] for Black students.” Members of AASU’s cabinet believe that media is a crucial asset to the club and that it will elevate and help achieve the ideals the organization represents.            

The African American Student Union continues to strive to be a safe space for Black students to express themselves. Young African Americans often face challenges in articulating themselves in a world that has always presented struggle in finding their “place.” The current president of AASU, Lena Johnson (284), understands and relates to this struggle. Johnson explains that, as she is aware of the amount of violence present in the world right now, especially in a city like Philadelphia, she hopes AASU members are able to use the organization as “an outlet for them to express themselves, show their joy, and interpret being the beautiful black individual they are”—all of which the club intends to encapsulate in the 2024 showcase. AASU values the individuality of its members and the space it fosters and is more than ecstatic to share this part of themselves with the Central community.