BSU Recognizing Black Herstory Month

Throughout life, people have been subjected to learn about history through a male point of view. Whether in books, lectures, or conversation, people have been told of the many great and powerful men and their lasting impacts on the world.

When reflecting on what has been taught and learned, one realizes that little information has been shared on women, and more so black women, who have made and continue to make great contributions to society. This February, follow the Black Student Union (BSU) on their Facebook page, Wilson College Black Student Union, every day as they highlight the many achievements of black and African-American women through their Black Herstory Month program.

The term “herstory” was created in 1970 to give a feminist perspective to history and share the experiences of women as a way to overcome the underrepresentation they faced. With this in mind, BSU aims to bring awareness to the lack of representation black women have encountered throughout history, increase the knowledge of influential black women, and rightfully acknowledge black women who have accomplished great feats. During their Black Herstory Month program, BSU will focus on more uncommonly known black women from different occupations such as scientists, politicians, dancers, musicians, and civil rights activists.

The Facebook page currently highlights: transwoman and activist, Marsha P. Johnson, who initiated the Stonewall Riot in June of 1969 and founded the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) to help homeless and runaway transgender individuals get off the streets; actress Hattie McDaniel, who was the first African-American woman to be awarded an Oscar in 1940: former slave Clara Brown, who lead a successful laundry business; and Shirley Chisholm, the first African-American congresswoman and first major-party African-American candidate to run for the U.S. presidency.

The Black Student Union hopes to give proper recognition to the many black and African-American women whose herstory goes unnoticed. BSU also hopes that those who visit their Facebook page learn about the many influential women and are encouraged to research the herstory of all women regardless of their race, ethnicity, or gender.

To be informed about future programs held by BSU follow them on Facebook at Wilson College Black Student Union and Instagram at wilson.bsu.edu