UCLA is taking proactive steps to support its Black student community through the ‘YOU GOOD UCLA?’ initiative. This program, organized by Be 911 Aware in collaboration with UCLA’s Black Student-Athlete Alliance (BSAA) and Afrikan Student Union (ASU), aims to address the unique pressures and challenges faced by Black students and student-athletes.
Addressing Belonging and Pressure
The initiative is designed to create a supportive environment where Black students can openly discuss issues of belonging, identity, and emotional well-being. With finals approaching, this effort is timely, as many students experience heightened stress and isolation during this period. The program includes emotional check-ins, storytelling, and community-building activities, providing a culturally relevant space for students to connect and feel supported.
Emergency Awareness and Support
Be 911 Aware, founded by Andrea Steward, a former LAPD 911 dispatcher, introduces students to the K.N.O.W. THE LINE framework. This training helps students understand when to call emergency services and how to handle everyday emergencies such as mental health crises and roommate conflicts. The program emphasizes the importance of knowing available resources and how to use them effectively.
Lisa C. Williams, Founder of CAREGD, highlights the need for spaces where students can express their true feelings and find support. The initiative aims to foster a sense of belonging and community, helping students realize they are not alone in their experiences.
Creating a Supportive Campus Environment
Through activities like the Belonging Snapshot, students can reflect on their levels of support and connection on campus. Organizers hope this initiative will spark broader conversations about emotional sustainability and proactive support systems for students navigating high-pressure environments.
The event, held at the BBRC Black Bruin Resource Center, underscores UCLA’s commitment to addressing the specific needs of its Black student population and promoting a more inclusive campus culture.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
