GPI: Angel De Leon, Black Student Union Vice President
- Izayah Morgan
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
By Izayah Morgan
Editorial Staff
What does Black history mean to you?
Struggle, but not in the way we think. Like, we fought through so much adversities just to get where we're at right now. We're still trying to propel ourselves ... and put ourselves in better positions, even though we're in a system that's made to keep us down. I feel like when it comes to Black history, people mainly focus on the negatives, which we can't ignore. It's a part of our blood. But Black history is not only that. Black history is beautiful. It's the community we build. It's the challenges we face together, and it also shows us how, no matter what, if we just come out together as a community, we can do anything. And finally, we have to come to the realization that we’re just as capable as our white counterparts.
What made you want to be BSU vice president?
Last year, I came in as a freshman. They accepted me with open arms. And I just found my place there. I found the community I was talking about - like my previous statement - where I met a lot of people. I met a lot of really good friends from BSU. So I just wanted to continue the tradition and create that for others.
Why is BSU important?
I feel like, especially in PWIs, there has to be a space where Black students could feel free and connected because, in my high school, I went to a majority Black school. I was used to seeing people that look like me every single day. And it's a culture shock when you go to a PWI and then see people that look nothing like you. So that's why I think Black student unions are important, because it creates a space for everyone to just come together and see your own community, even though there's not that many of you.
Who is a Black history figure you look up to?
I have two. In my eyes, Malcolm X is the G.O.A.T. - like, the greatest of all time. And then the next one is, I don't think people have done their research on him, but James Baldwin. Baldwin was a civil rights activist and writer. If anyone has time, you could just search up some of his interviews and his debates on YouTube, and it's like, he really speaks to the soul of Black folk.
What words do you want to leave with the FSU community this Black History Month?
Always keep your head up. And you being here, being born, and being present, is proof that you can achieve anything. That's what I want to leave people here with.
