By Harold Walston ’21

Otterbein’s African American Student Union (AASU) is active on campus year-round, but their Black History Month events are among the most popular. With topics ranging from financial literacy to Black identities, their virtual discussions are open to anyone who wants to listen, share, respect, and learn.

AASU Black History Month events include:

• Now-Feb. 16 – AASU T-Shirt Sale
• Feb. 15, 5 p.m. – Financial Literacy 101
• Feb. 16, 5 p.m. – AASU and FreeZone present: Intersectionality of Black Identity
• Feb. 18, 6:30 p.m. – Student Government presents: Diversity Town Hall
• Feb. 22, 5 p.m. – You’re Not Black Enough
• Feb. 24, 6 p.m. – AASU Alumni Event

* NOTE: Find login details on Twitter or Instagram @Otterbein_AASU.

AASU President Angel Banks and Secretary Elijah McCutcheon are involved in the planning of the group’s programming.

“Black History Month programs and all of our programs are important to us because they give us a chance to dive into topics and conversations that some people on campus don’t want to talk about,” McCutcheon said. “We want students to be able to have discussions about issues that matter to them as individuals.

“Our Black History Month events include themes such as: Black at Otterbein, Financial Literacy, and even Durag and Bonnet Day,” McCutcheon.

These events support the groups focus on self-expression for Black students and creating a space where students can speak and act freely within a supportive community.

But AASU’s Black History Month events also are intended to spark joy and a sense of community. “It is about creating a time to celebrate who we are as students and as a people,” Banks said.

The events taking place during Black History Month are just a small drop in an enormous sea of service, programming, and experiences that AASU offers. Throughout the academic year, the organization places itself at the helm of student leadership and programs throughout the Otterbein community. These programs incorporate Black culture, conversation, and experiences for all Cardinals of all colors.

“We hope to give students perpetual resources to help them express themselves,” McCutcheon said.

AASU was established in 1987 “to promote unity and cooperation among African-American students and all students with similar interests and/or backgrounds. Membership is open to any Otterbein student who supports and respects the heritage, legacies and cultural traditions of African-American people.”

For three decades, it has been an important tool for expression and education. You can join the African American Student Union on their weekly virtual meetings every Monday at 5 p.m. Check out their Instagram @otterbein_aasu for more information.