when a spark
BECOMES A MOVEMENT
Society is shaped by movements, pushing and pulling the direction in which society will go. People contribute, respond, and grow these movements until they become forces that evolve the whole. Yet, every movement requires that starting point, that spark that ignites a movement so it can take-off and make its mark. On Midland’s campus, movements are being sparked by students. Organizations like Black Student Union, Hispanic Student Union, and PRISM (Pride, Raising awareness, Involvement, Support, and Mentoring) are movements that have been brought about by the ambition and drive of students and the university. “These organizations are creating a sense of community and belonging in people that are used to being around others who look like them and act like them, but suddenly are in a place where now they rarely see them,” Yajayra Borrego, a member of Hispanic Student Union, said. “Organizations like BSU, HSU, and PRISM are working to educate everyone about
22 Midland Magazine
their history, as well as their present and future, of how they’ve been treated and what continues to go on and what should be done. These organizations are saying ‘I am here and you are going to see and hear me.’” Through these groups, students help organize events and plan panels that aim to bring awareness to voices in the Black, Hispanic, and LGBTQ+ communities. Beyond awareness, they want to provide a place where students on campus can learn and grow alongside these communities, promoting an atmosphere on campus that celebrates and embraces diversity and inclusion amongst its students. “I believe we should embrace diversity and inclusion to make sure that everyone has a voice, no matter their gender identity, religion, race, orientation, or ability.” Devyn Hansen, a member of PRISM, said, “We should be striving to make Midland an open and safe environment for all of its students. By becoming active in the movement, we can work to form a more unified campus.”
