top of page

The Black Student Union (founded in 1968)

BSU4.jpg
BSU6 (1).jpg
BSU2.jpg
BSU3.jpg

The Black Student Union (founded in 1968)​

Installed: Aug 2018

​

      DePaul University has embraced diversity since its founding in 1898.  From those early days, students representing different faiths, nationalities and ethnic groups were welcomed.  However, prior to 1968 there was never a recognized student group that represented the interests and concerns of the African American populace.   

      Through the efforts of James Hammonds, Flemmie Wilson and others, the Black Student Union was formed in order to provide a cohesive voice to demand more inclusiveness in decisions impacting their culture, as well as their education.  Their efforts eventually led to the peaceful takeover of the ‘brand new’ Schmidt Academic Center in May 1969.  And since this event, there has been more open and productive dialogue between the Black students and the University Administration. In addition, significant changes were implemented in the overall university curriculum to ensure that there was greater and more visible representation of the contributions of African Americans in all courses of study.  

      While these actions of the students drew local attention and some support of organizational leaders like Fred Hampton (Black Panthers) and ‘Chi-Chi’ Rodriguez (Almighty Saints/Lords), it was the determination of this group of young Black students that paved the way to a truly higher and richer education.  DePaul, indeed, was shown the way to wisdom. 

        The composition featured here, represents two main elements.  An African mask, and a tree that illustrates the overall growth of the DePaul’s Black Student Union. Starting at its roots, and flowering into the leaves above that represents what the current Black Student Union advocates in service for the DePaul community.  The African mask which memorializes individuals who were significant in the May '69 protest at SAC.

​

Inspiration/Background:

 

Historical yearbook photos used on the pillar itself or found in research leading to the creation of the composition in question include:

1)      Fred Hampton  (Black Panther Leader)

2)      Jim Hammonds BSU Founder

3)      Closed,  BSU posted sign at SAC May '69

4)      Steve Berry reading BSU demands

5)      Protesters outside SAC

6)      J.R. Courtelyou, cm Francine Stewart, Bob Schwane, cm voices of peace in '69.

Fred_Hampton_and_Ed_Stokes_at_Black_Stud
Jim Hammonds BSU Pres. '69.jpg
Closed.jpg
Steve_Berry_reading_BSU_demands.jpg
Protesters outside SAC.jpg
JRCSchwanegold.jpg
bottom of page