On Thursday February 13th, the Black Student Union hosted “A Night in Hollywood” Met Gala for the student body, an evening of unity, fashion, and fun during the heart of Black History Month. Dressed for the occasion, both under and upperclassmen were able to come together and celebrate black excellence, taking pride in each other as well as the achievements made throughout the community.
The Student Union Multipurpose Room looked a lot different, decorated in a multitude of stars over black, red, and gold drapery. Attendees could take photos in front of the cinema-esque BSU sign on the red carpet, or go for a 360 panoramic video with friends. The real festivities began with a heartfelt poem by BSU President Kayla Simone Wilson. An ode to the importance of black history, Kayla delivered a powerful message on how black accomplishments are woven into the seams of our nation, unable to be stifled, and a reminder to continue being unapologetically proud of our roots. Following Kayla’s speech was a fashion walk by Glamazon, showing off the variety of elegant outfits worn to match the gala theme. Food was served shortly after, with no shortage of good music once the dance floor was opened. I took this opportunity to interview several attendees.
“We contribute so much to society,” said Elijah Black, a senior and Biology major, when I asked what black history means to him. “Whether it be culture…math….music, literature, you know, Langston Hughes [and] Octavia Butler…STEM…we wouldn’t be [in] space without Katherine [Johnson]. Black history is recognizing what black people have done for the planet.” Jara Gonzalez, a Psychology major, shared similar thoughts. “Black history, of course, is American history. But it’s not just centered [on] Black History Month. It’s the whole year, the whole decade, and everything, honestly.”
The gala was one of many Black History Month events planned for February. It stands as a beacon of empowerment as Donald Trump’s second presidential term has brought on a slew of executive orders. The rders have undermined Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives in government positions and federally funded programs. Elijah Black, upon me asking if this function had additional impact because of current events, continued: “[…] Events like this, especially now with the rise of fascism and white supremacy…more black hosted events like this are really important in this climate.”
At the end of the night, as the music started to wind down and people took their leave into the cold, I got to talk with Kayla Simone Wilson about her thoughts on black history and her successful gala. “Black history means struggle, prevalence, success, pain. It’s everything in between. I think [this gala] means a lot. We’re giving a, for lack of better terms, a big F you to things trying to keep us down. This is showing people…we know what’s right. We know that DEI is what keeps us interesting, it keeps us together, connected. So it’s things like this that need to keep [happening].”
The BSU did a fantastic job at boosting morale in a time where it is few and far between. “We’re here. Come join [the BSU], come see us,” Kayla encouraged fellow Old Westbury students as we concluded our interview. “Everybody’s welcome, every walk of life. Whoever wants to learn, share, laugh, love, we’re here for you.”
