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In the 45 year period between 1922 and 1976 there were few Blacks that would graduate from the university. It was not until 1968 the African American presence was strong enough for the first student of color organization, “Promoting Racial Identity Dignity and Equality” (Pride), could be established with Richard Jones, a sophomore, serving as the first president. Although Pride was a multi-racial student organization, its focus was to help students of color deal with problems they often faced at Hamline, and on exposing the campus and community to different cultures. Pride has always been inclusive of all American students of color, as well as international students. As the of students of color from other racial groups began to increase in the 1990s, other student of color organizations, reflective of those racial/ethnic communities began to form. These included Asian Watch (later named Asian Pacific American Coalition, APAC) in 1990 and the Hmong Student Association in 1995. As the other student groups grew, Pride changed its name to Pride Black Student Alliance (Pride BSA) in 1999 to reflect the focus of the group on Black student issues. In 2003, the Hamline African Student Association (HASA) formed to offer opportunities to learn more about African cultures and to serve as a support system for African students. The Multicultural and International Student Affairs Office (MISA), formed in 1970 and has since been offering support, advocacy, services and cultural awareness to students of color and the entire campus community.

In response to Pride’s 35 Anniversary Weekend, many alumni of color returned to the university and have now created the Black Alumni Association, under the leadership of Yolanda Williams, class of 1979 and former director of Minority Student Programs.

As a transfer student I feel that Hamline University offers many events for students of color to attend. However, the participation from faculty, staff, and administrators is very low and could be a lot better. It is somewhat shameful to know that Hamline host all these events but you tend to see the same select few faculty and staff in attendance. If we want Hamline to truly be an inclusive university, it is important to have more participation from everyone on campus and in the community. The events being hosted for Black History Month are not exclusive to the Black community; everyone is welcome. There are 11 events taking place on campus for Black History Month, and I extend an invitation to all faculty, staff, students, administration, and the community to attend some events. Your participation is not only encouraged and welcomed; it is needed to make Hamline University complete, and in the same breath I ask that you don’t forget that next month, March, is Asian Heritage Month. APAC will be delighted to have your support and attendance. Remember, Black History and Asian American History is American History, yours and mine.