By: Amber Goodwin (’19), Staff Writer
The University prides itself in creating inclusive spaces that promote bringing everyone together. Unfortunately, with a country that closely resembles old eras of division, isolation, and anger, our differences are drawing us further apart. Black Congress was established by a group of students who saw the need to create an exclusive space that offered healing, empowerment, and education for the Black community. I was able to sit down with one of its founders, Deshawn Dazevedo, and discuss the importance of having an organization like Black Congress and how they plan to leave an impact here on campus.
Deshawn Dazevedo, along with 13 other student leaders and activists created Black Congress in the fall of 2016. The organization has no official leader because they wanted to make it a collective effort. Everyone has the opportunity to get involved and lead events. Since its startup, Black Congress has implemented various projects such as the Die-In for police brutality, Black Out/Sit Out at football games, Capitalism 101 teach-in, and the Reclaim MLK March.
Although there are various organizations promoting diversity and social justice, Black Congress believed they had a responsibility to bring something of substance to the table. While discussing their inspiration and objective, Deshawn added, “Black Congress found its inspiration from examining other organizations and finding a lack in progressive organizing. The objective is to create a network amongst other colleges.”
Deshawn, who also serves as the Black Student Movement’s Vice President and co-advisor for First-Year Class Council, explains the difference between Black Congress and BSM: “One major difference is it is not campus affiliated, therefore we are able to do what we want without the risk of losing funding. In addition, we have teach-ins. Anyone can reach out to someone in Black Congress on a specific topic. We work with you in creating your event and serve as a resource. “
The Reclaim MLK March was a collaborative event by Black Congress and student activists from NC State. Protesters marched from State’s Memorial Bell Tower to the North Carolina General Assembly where they discussed issues faced as black people along with other marginalized groups such as the LGBTQ community. The hashtag #ReclaimMLK has gained popularity over the past few years. When asked what “Reclaiming MLK” meant to him, Deshawn explains, “MLK is painted as the hero of the civil rights movement. Some would describe him as a pacifist by not causing conflict. However during his time period Dr. King was deemed radical, especially towards the end of his life when his ideas became more radicalized.” Black Congress hopes to collaborate with other organizations for MLK weekend in the future and enlighten today’s generation on Dr. King’s ideology and legacy.
With so much polarization and apprehension over our country’s current political climate, Deshawn offers advice for readers who may feel targeted or discouraged. Deshawn lists, “Number one is to practice self care. You cannot function properly if you don’t allow yourself to distress. Number two would be to find someone to talk to. Bottling things up isn’t healthy. C.A.P.S. is a great resource. They encourage you to talk to someone and vent. Lastly, go to events where there will be faculty of color. My boss is Erica Wallace and it is nice to talk to someone in a professional world but can still connect on an emotional avenue. They serve as great resources.”
With more teach-ins, demonstrations, and collaborative events planned for the semester, Black Congress is truly a force to be reckoned with.
