The Black Student Union (BSU) at Eastern Connecticut State University held its annual BSU Fashion Show on Feb. 26 in the Shafer Auditorium. This year’s theme was “The Comeback” and had approximately 20 students walking the runaway. The BSU partnered with two other student organizations for the event: Fusion Dance Crew and United Voices of Praise, a gospel music group.

Makayla Jackson, president of BSU, shared why the “Comeback” theme was created. “Our last fashion show ‘Rapid Fire’ happened in March 2020, right before we were sent home due to the pandemic,” she said.

“We were the last in-person fashion show the school held. Two years later, we were back with the first in-person fashion show and wanted to send the message that the pandemic didn’t break us as a community. So, this year’s theme was based on resilience. Our community is strong enough to pick up where we left off with the hope that the pandemic doesn’t continue to put other aspects of our lives on hold.”

There was a great deal of planning leading up to the event, including finding a DJ, visiting boutiques for outfits and more. There was also plenty of coordinating leading up to the show as well as backstage organizing. Co-coordinators for the show were Alyah Velez and D’ana Holloway, who were responsible for organizing models, leading practices, keeping track of paperwork, picking designers and more.

“Both these women put so much time and effort into the show and are the real reason the show happened the way it did,” said Jackson. “There were so many obstacles around the show and with professionalism, fast-thinking and grace, these girls made the show happen with flying colors.”

Jackson shared why these events mean something more than just entertainment. “One thing I always admired about the BSU fashion shows was the vibe. You didn’t have to be a perfect model to walk the stage, you just had to be willing to take a chance. Hosting the fashion show each spring is just something fun everyone can look forward to.”

BSU’s mission is “to highlight Black excellence at Eastern by creating a community of students dedicated to promoting Black achievement through civic engagement, community service, history and high academic performance.” To emphasize that, the show concentrated on Black empowerment by modelling clothing from Black-owned businesses.