Scecina’s First Black Student Union: An Interview with Founding Member Leah Gunn
Scecina Memorial High School recently made school history by forming its first-ever Black Student Union (BSU). Sophomores Leah Gunn and Shianne Jackson founded the BSU with the support of teachers Melba Jackson and Cameron Adams. Their mission is to promote a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students and to celebrate the richness of Black history and culture. We had an opportunity to speak with Leah Gunn, one of the founding members of the BSU, to learn more about their goals and plans for the future.
Q: How does it feel to form Scecina’s first BSU?
A: It honestly feels really great and empowering. I’m really proud of how far we’ve come this year.
Q: What’s your mission?
A: Our mission is to help all students feel welcome and at home at Scecina and to engage the Scecina Community in learning and celebrating the richness of Black history and culture. I would like to add that the BSU welcomes everyone; we ask you to be respectful!
Q: What are some activities you have planned?
A: We hope to have a call-out meeting and movie night. Hopefully, next year, we’ll have a bake sale, a skate party, and some other fundraisers and fun activities.
Q: How can students get involved or join?
A: Students can get involved or join by contacting us. We are here to help answer questions. They may also contact Ms. Jackson.
Q: What type of support do you need from your school community?
A: We need support to promote the BSU and encourage people to learn and embrace Black culture here at Scecina.
Q: What do you hope to accomplish with BSU?
A: I hope to have a safe and comforting community that Scecina students can embrace. I also hope to leave my memory or mark at Scecina so that future generations can find happiness in the same things I do.
Q: Will you have any meetings or do anything this year?
A: We hope to have at least one meeting this year and, if possible, a movie night.
Scecina President Joe Therber also helped guide the students on how to create BSU’s mission and vision, and he added, “Leah and Shianne have done an absolutely outstanding job of visioning the inclusive and educational mission of a Black Student Union at Scecina. Their experiences, viewpoints, and goals reflect a wisdom and generosity of spirit that are far beyond their years. Having conversations with Leah and Shianne about the mission has been a privilege, and I am very thankful for them and their aspirations.”
