Founded in January of 2024, the Black Student Association (BSA) at Harrison High School (HHS) aims to bring unity, belonging, and justice to the Black student population on campus. The building’s BSA was initially founded as a safe space for Black students to discuss anti-blackness in both the Harrison community and larger society. Today, the BSA provides all students with a forum to have their voices heard and acknowledged regarding how to combat racism. According to Vice President 12th grader Seblé Lopez, “When Farrah and I founded the BSA last year, it was a long process including meetings with administration. But it was very worthwhile when we got to hold our first meeting one year ago. I am so proud of what we have accomplished in terms of impacting marginalized students in need of support.”

The Black Student Association (BSA) is a safe space for addressing and developing answers to systematic racial theories, phenomena, and inequalities, including stereotypes perpetuated by the media, music, and sports as outlets, political and artistic contributions,   unique traditions, intersectional experiences, and the legacy of our collective history. Furthermore, the group informs non-Black students about the Black experience in order to foster school-wide understanding and allyship. 11th grader Eli Singer says, “I always enjoy learning new things about Black culture at BSA meetings, such as the history of rap and jazz music.” Offering a structured environment for these important dialogues, members are encouraged to express their opinions and search for answers to their questions about race relations.

Apart from organizing meetings every other Monday, the BSA at HHS actively motivates members to perform their best in all school life, from academics to sports to social dynamics. Through mentorship and empathy, members help each other embrace their heritage and develop confidence in their unique racial identity. “I feel safe to express myself and connect with other students of the African diaspora at the BSA,” says 12th grader Jeremiah Rincon.

The BSA emphasizes leadership and compassion, two qualities important to leaders of Black Power such as MLK and Nelson Mandela, who are significant sources of inspiration for the student group. By highlighting the lives, accomplishments, and realities of Black people in both past and present, the BSA inspires its members to champion racial equality. Specifically, the student-run organization develops Black excellence and pride in the school community by hosting an annual potluck each June, celebrating MLK Day, Black History Month every year, and Women’s History Month, and screening illuminating films such as Maya Angelou: Reflections of Blessed Soul. 

Girls’ Track and Field Head Coach Keina Samules said,  “More than just being a safe space, the BSA facilitates real bonds between members, even outside of their meetings. I was invited to speak at a meeting about Black people’s athletic involvement and contributions both at our school and in society. I witnessed how members of the HHS Track Team were connected through honest discussion at the BSA.” 

The BSA continued pursuing its goals of education and self-determination during Black History Month in February. Unwavering in their dedication to creating a welcoming environment,  members of the BSA commemorated Black history while celebrating the accomplishments of Black students, resulting in a more equal future. The BSA will organize revelatory conversations for Harrison High School’s Black student population while inviting in all voices to reflect on racial equity for years to come.

Farrah Frandson is a Co-Editor-In-Chief of the Husky Herald and Founder/President of the Black Student Association.