Student-Led BASU Reflects on Black History Month at SLU-Madrid
The Black and African Student Union (BASU) at Saint Louis University-Madrid concluded a month of programming in February that celebrated Black and African culture through dialogue, art, food and music.
Throughout Black History Month, the student-led organization hosted a series of events aimed at fostering cultural appreciation and creating spaces for conversation and connection across campus.
"Black History Month was a huge success for BASU at SLU-Madrid," said club president Gabi Roque. "Being able to celebrate Black and African culture, voices, and excellence while bringing together our diverse campus community was very inspiring and empowering."
The month began with a Round Table Talk on Feb. 9 focused on multiracial identities and the experience of being biracial within the Black and African community. The event, held in collaboration with the Psychology Club, invited students to engage in discussion about identity and belonging.
On Feb. 12, BASU partnered with Casa del Sudán to host "Sips & Strawberries" in celebration of Black Love Day. The fundraiser featured chocolate-covered strawberries and Sudanese food, offering students an opportunity to gather in a space centered on community and cultural appreciation.
BASU organized an Ethiopian restaurant outing at Restaurante Etíope Nuria in Madrid. It provided an intimate setting for students to experience Ethiopian cuisine together.
Artistic expression took center stage on Feb.18 during an arts-and-crafts lesson, held in collaboration with the Art & Art History Club. It focused on paper sculptures and story quilts, drawing inspiration from materials such as the Harriet Powers lesson kit and other art education resources.
Music closed out the month on Feb. 27 with "Jam n' Sip: Black/African Rhythms and Sounds," a collaboration with the Music League.
The organization collaborated with multiple student groups throughout the month, including the Psychology Club, Art & Art History Club, Music League and MENA Club.