Black Student Union

Our Purpose

The purpose of the Black Student Union is to provide a support unit for African American students on the Lewis and Clark campus, and serve as a cultural, educational, and social resource for the college. We ensure the opportunity for interested students to engage in and discuss the political, economic, and social issues facing the African American community. We also encourage the social and personal growth of our members. The BSU strives to advance the general welfare of LC’s African American student body, and the student body as a whole, by protecting and maintaining their civil liberties and providing a union based on trust and respect.

Our History

The BSU was formally organized in 1990. Before 1990, a number of the black students were involved in a multicultural club on campus and found themselves doing the majority of the planning for events concerning other’s race and culture. They then decided to unite and focus on issues concerning their collective black culture. After formally organizing in 1990, the first major accomplishment was the initiation of the Ethnic Student Services Senior Banquet that now occurs annually. The original members actively recruited other black students and organized activities to celebrate the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday and Black History Month. The BSU continued to expand and became increasingly active. The members of the BSU brought speakers, film series and groups on campus that would increase awareness of Black culture and issues impacting the African-American community. These activities provided an aspect of education and programming that had previously been missing in the Lewis and Clark community.

BSU Meetings

When: Tuesdays @ 7pm

Where: BSU/Hawaii Club Office (across from ATM machines on second level of Templeton)

Black Student Union
0615 SW Palatine Hill Road
MSC 124
Portland, Oregon 97219
bsu@lclark.edu