A sense of community and support among Black students — this is what the Black Student Union (BSU) aims to create at Waxahachie High School, according to the founders Peyton Griffin and Carter Jefferson-Townsend.

The leaders say that their initiative addresses the need for a dedicated space where Black students can connect, share experiences and promote cultural awareness within the school. 

“When we think ‘union,’ we think of solidarity between others,” junior co-founder Jefferson-Townsend said. “In BSU, we are working together to uplift Black voices within WHS.”

Jefferson-Townsend and Griffin played a vital role in creating BSU together. They said that their dedication has been important in building a platform that amplifies Black voices in the school.

Griffin, junior, hopes that BSU is a place where “people can branch out and find a community within WHS” and he hopes to inspire other students in WHS. “It is important that we start something for other generations,” he said. 

BSU members said they support each other by maintaining a welcoming environment where everyone feels respected and heard. They organize meetings where they discuss their shared experiences. The members of BSU are coming together with the goal of forming an inclusive community. 

“BSU means the opportunity to get to know more people who look like me,” sophomore Ravyn Hildreth said. 

Members are building trust with one another. Leaders said going forward, they want to form a community where friendships can be made, especially across grade levels and backgrounds. 

“BSU is a community of people that I can grow with, and know that they will always support me,” freshman Ahrielle McGilbra said.  

This collective effort is exactly what Griffin and Jefferson-Townsend envisioned, they said. The club works together to advocate for issues affecting WHS’ Black student community. Members explained that collective voices can lead to positive changes and greater awareness of needs and concerns.