BSU hosts 8th annual Peace Walk

OSWEGO, N.Y – SUNY Oswego’s Black Student Union (BSU) hosted their annual ALANA Peace Walk in collaboration with African American Male Empowerment Network (AAMEN). This year’s walk focused on diversity and inclusivity.

“Diversity is not just a number or race. It’s inclusion of all minority factors in majority spaces, making sure that everyone is both welcomed and has an equal opportunity to thrive on this campus,” Omar Van Reenen, Student Association President, said.

This was Van Reenen’s first peace walk, he said that it is important for not only ALANA organizations to participate but for all organizations on campus to show support as a college community.

The walk started at the Oswego City Hall and headed up West Bridge Street and Washington Boulevard. Students, faculty and local residents were encouraged to participate. The walk ended on campus in front of Marano Campus Center where the SUNY Oswego Gospel Choir preformed.

“In Oswego, it’s not like the most diverse but it’s important to know it is diversity here, it is black people and people of color on this campus that do have voices,” Ma Qusi Modeste, BSU Social Media Director, said.

The Peace Walk is a way for BSU and other ALANA organizations to make their voices both on and of campus. With over 70 people in attendance and 20 organizations participating this year’s peace has a lager turn out than year. BSU hopes the participation will grow for next year’s peace walk.