BCC Faculty & Students Lead War in Ukraine Discussion

Berkeley City College’s Students for Social Change Club hosted an informational presentation and discussion about the Russian invasion of Ukraine. News reports estimate the conflict has killed thousands of civilians and combat personnel on both sides, and to date over a million Ukrainian citizens have fled the country. BCC History Professor Mike Noonan illustrated a historical summary of Ukraine and Russia starting from the 12th century into today, providing a contextual backdrop for students of the tensions in the region, from Ukraine’s relatively short-lived independence to the Cold War and fall of the Soviet Union, and NATO expansion. BCC English Professor Marc Lispi provided a more in-depth analysis of the political developments over the past decade between the United States, Russia, and Ukraine and fielded questions about how students can play a role in change. Students interested in joining the SSCC can sign up for notifications and events here.

Return to Campus Updates

The Asian American Pacific Islander Leadership Club hosted a Lunar New year event on February 24th during college hour at the BCC Atrium. It was the first in-person AAPI Leadership Club event on campus. Students took part in Lunar New Year games, gave out prizes, listened to music, and enjoyed free food.

The games included Bầu Cua Cá Cọp and a game where blindfolded contestants compete to shovel lucky envelopes into a basket. “We were really excited to do an in-person event,” said AAPI Leadership Club President Jennifer Fong “It’s overall easier to get people together and create a community and safe space for us all and have a fun time. All of these games are very interactive so it’s great to have everyone come together and have fun.”

Black History Month Closing Celebration

The Black Student Union celebrated the close of Black History Month with an event on February 28 at the BCC Student Union. Students, faculty, and staff experienced a drum circle to open the event followed by a commemoration of this Black History Month’s theme “Black History is American History! Black History is World History!” BSU Staff Advisor Ramona Butler and Dean of Student Services held a libations ceremony. The BSU then hosted a Kahoot challenge, quizzing attendees on Black History. Student Alexa Vergara won the contest, getting 13 of 14 questions right and winning a $100 Visa gift card. Vergara credited the diversity of the Bay Area and her friends for her knowledge of Black History and pop culture. Attendees were also treated to a delicious lunch of fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, and fruit.

President’s Message: Honoring Women’s History Month

March is the beginning of Women’s History Month, creating a space for us to acknowledge and celebrate women’s contributions to our societal growth and history. As we conclude Black History Month and move into Women’s History Month, I am reminded of the connections that exist across time: the valuable role that African- American women played in our country’s history, as Shirley Chisholm of New York became the first African-American Congresswoman (1969-1971, 91st Congress). Women now make up 27% of all members in the House of Representatives and the Senate (144 of 539 seats, 117th Congress) and a record number for the most women in these publicly elected positions. This level of commitment and engagement for women does not happen without Congresswoman Chisholm’s trailblazing efforts.

While our society has coined heritage months as a way to honor the beauty of our diversity, it can also provide a false sense of isolated struggle for inclusion. The intersection of our identities, the strengths of our community are the ways in which we love and honor one another. In future months, we will celebrate Asian and Pacific Islander history, Hispanic history, Arab history, LGBTQIA history, and, mental health awareness. These heritage and awareness months highlight and honor not only the unique value and beauty of these groups but also how we must recognize a shared history that calls upon each one of us to disrupt systemic forms of oppression and discrimination.

As I see the images coming out of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, I am stunned by the violence and destruction being wrought against civilians in an independent nation. But I am uplifted by seeing the faces in crowds of strong women, men, and non-binary individuals standing, in most cases unarmed, in the face of oppression. I am reminded of the critical role that women have played in peace-keeping and caregiving efforts. The first female President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, a physician by trade, is leading efforts to bring Ukraine into the European Union, creating unity and alliances that will hopefully provide peace. This is but one example of women leading in a truly volatile time.

We see women leading nations, states, and multinational corporations; we see their works in art, music, film, and writings; we hear their voices leading movements to combat the environmental and social issues of our time. We use this month to reflect on our ancestors who fought and continue to fight for equity in our world.

This year’s theme for Women’s History Month is “Women Providing Healing, Promoting Hope.” It is a time to recognize the work of frontline workers in our health system, care providers, mothers, and teachers. I encourage you to think of those women who bring you care and stability in the face of hardship and sacrifice. The COVID-19 pandemic and the economic woes that have come with it have brought into focus the important contributions women play in providing for families and communities. Let us honor them.

Berkeley City College’s Women’s Leadership Club is planning to celebrate this Women’s History Month with events throughout the month. Please keep an eye out for notifications to attend these events and support the next generation of leaders here at BCC.

Dr. Angélica Garcia (she| her| ella)

President

Berkeley City College

This article is taken from the President’s Report, written by Dr. Angélica Garcia, Berkeley City College President, that was presented to the PCCD Board of Trustees during their regular meeting on Tuesday, March 8, 2022. To view as a pdf, click here.