Frequently ranked least diverse state in the nation with around 90.90% of the population identifying as white, West Virginians seem to lose sight of the importance of diversity. Learning about racial, religious, economic and cultural diversity is essential because it creates a balanced perspective and encourages people to have an open mind. These reasons are exactly why the Diversity Student Union (DSU) was created in 2021, in an effort to prepare students to succeed in a diverse and interconnected world.

“DSU is important to me because it brings good people of different backgrounds and cultures together from a small town in West Virginia,” president Sadie Day said.

Here are five reasons you should consider being a part of DSU:

1. It helps members learn more about the world outside of their hometown

Two meetings a month the club will discuss different holidays, traditions, customs or current events with either a Powerpoint or video presentation. Usually club president Sadie Day or myself will present; however, members are welcome to create their own presentation and share it during the meetings. Members are given a wider perception of the world, which is difficult when surrounded with little diversity in their community. For example, over Christmas break members traveled to Columbus to visit the World Market, Short North Arts District and see the Broadway show “SIX.”

2. Members are given a space to be themselves

With the option to present, members are able to speak freely on topics they feel strongly about in the media, parts of their culture, holidays they celebrate or customs that they have in their household. This gives members an outlet to express themselves and share things or experiences that are important to them. It also becomes an educational experience for members and provides insight to their peers.

3. It lets members make a positive impact

Going toward the lunch room, passing the girls bathroom is DSU’s bulletin board. Members get to choose what they would like the board to look like and assemble it. This is so when students and

staff pass by they hopefully learn something new or become more open minded and aware of other cultures.

4. Members meet new people and it’s an easy place to make friends

DSU is a predominantly student-run club, under the advice of English teacher Elsie Horton. Day and I run meetings unless another arrangement is made with members wanting to. Meetings give an interactive space surrounded with people who you wouldn’t normally run into every day amidst crowded hallways. With all the parties, craft days and after school dinners it is easy to form bonds with fellow members.

5. Trying new foods from other cultures

During a couple meetings a month, members will bring in food to Horton’s room or will go out to eat at a restaurant as a club. Trying restaurants around town, bringing in home-cooked meals and treats, and decorating the room in celebration of corresponding cultural recognition months provides a fun educational experience for members.

“My favorite part is the sense of belonging. DSU feels like a second family,” second-year member Sheyla Almaguer said.

Meetings are held during 5th period on Wednesdays in Horton’s room (332N). Everyone is welcome. It is not too late to make a difference. For meeting updates, keep up to date with the club’s Instagram page @phs.dsu.

Staff writer Aubrie Kendall is DSU vice president.