Collage of photos of two Shadle Park High School students.

For Black History Month, we're speaking with SPS high school students who are engaged in their school’s Black Student Union or Multicultural Club to hear their perspectives as members of these clubs.

At Shadle Park High School, we met with junior Anesu Whacha (left) and Kiera Westenskow (right).

What does Shadle Park’s BSU mean to you?

Anesu: Community. And a sense of belonging. I moved here from Zimbabwe last June, and I joined the BSU in October. I saw BSU members connect with one another, they looked like family. I wanted to be a part of it.

Kiera: It’s important to me because it’s a place where people can learn. Some people don’t know about their culture or our culture. It’s good to know what’s going on in the world, especially regarding racial problems. We’re inclusive, we’re like a family, and we help fix problems in our school and in our community. I think of us as spokespeople for our school.

What aspect of your cultural heritage and identity are you most proud of?

A: My African heritage is important to me in every way. I am where I came from. That’s where my extended family is. I am Zimbabwe. So, it’s important for me to share where I came from because it’s who I am. If we know more about each other, we can work together and appreciate each other. Most people don’t like what they don’t know. But if I know you and you know me, I respect you and you respect me.

K: I’m Black, Mexican, and white, and all of it – all three – make me proud. When I think of what my ancestors accomplished, it’s great to feel a part of that. All three have accomplished so much. I’m glad that I can say, ‘That’s me.’

What do you want people in your school, our community, and the rest of the world to understand about Black youth today?

K: We’re literally the same as everyone else! Just in different shapes and fonts – we’re all human. And we are worth more than what some people give us. I think we’re pretty fun too.

A: Black youth are strong. We really have to prove ourselves. We’re not quitters. We are hard workers. And we are really kind people.

Why do you think it’s important for people living in the United States to observe Black History Month?

A: Celebrating Black History Month gives us a chance to express ourselves about things that happened in the past. It helps to remind us to keep working hard.

K: I feel like no one would pay attention to who we are and what we’ve accomplished if we didn’t take this opportunity to celebrate our culture and color. If we were still segregated, I couldn’t share this school would all these people. This month is about acknowledging what we’ve done and celebrating it.