By: Peyton Zamarelli '22

ALLIANCE – The University of Mount Union’s Black Student Union (BSU) is ecstatic to bring back its annual fashion show Saturday, February 26 at 7:30 p.m. in Brush Performance Hall of the Giese Center for the Performing Arts.

BSU’s mission is to emphasize the history of the Black community from centuries ago to today. The group’s members actively promote pride and awareness in the overall Black experience both on and off campus. The organization is meant to be a safe space for students, faculty, and staff to be vulnerable amongst peers, share their stories, and uplift and empower one another. BSU is not just meant for black students, but strongly encourage all students to attend meetings, educate themselves on diversity and inclusion, and to be dedicated allies. 

“BSU is a family for all,” shared Aaliyah Kinnard ’24 of North Canton, Ohio, social events coordinator for BSU. “We are an organization that promotes and provides camaraderie and support to each of our members. Everyone is welcome! If our mission speaks to you and you have the time, we highly encourage you to come out to our meetings. BSU meets every Thursday in Chapman Hall room 111 at 7:30 p.m.” 

Kinnard is a current sophomore majoring in psychology with a minor in gender and sexuality studies. On campus, she is a member of the Mount Union Choral Program, Sister Circle, and the Mount Union Players, where she will be portraying the role of Leading Player in the University’s spring musical, Pippin.

As the social events coordinator, she has been managing the planning, design, and execution of the fashion show, which is titled, “Black Hollywood: From the Filmmakers to the Stars.” This event showcases designs inspired by Black actors, filmmakers, and film. Current members have had the opportunity to design their own wardrobe with artistic freedom throughout the process to best convey the character or era in which they will represent. 

When asked what Kinnard’s experience planning the fashion show has been like, she stated, “This is my first time being involved with the BSU fashion show. Due to my position on our executive board, I have the main responsibility of directing the fashion show, with the help of our other board members and the fashion show committee. I have enjoyed the process so much, and I cannot wait for everyone to see what we have created!”

This entertaining and educational event is open to the public and tickets can be purchased by visiting mountunion.edu/boxoffice.