Student AffairsBlack @ Queens is a program within the Yellow House that caters specifically to Black students, creating spaces and activities for them to thrive, find community and a sense of belonging. The Black Inclusion Initiative (BII) website is the ultimate resource webpage curated specifically for Black students. Rooted in the philosophy of Black joy and resilience, it seeks to foster a sense of community, support, and empowerment for Black students at Queen’s University. The resource section is designed to be a crucial tool for Black students, consolidating every essential resource into one central location. This includes scholarship opportunities, event calendars, and student wellness resources, effectively bridging the gap between awareness and success while celebrating the strength and joy inherent in the Black experience.
Purpose and Goals
The Black Inclusion Initiative exists to support the unique needs of Black students at Queen’s University. By providing centralized access to essential resources and creating opportunities for connection and engagement, BII aims to enhance the student experience and promote a sense of belonging, all while celebrating the resilience and joy of the Black community. our vision is to To create a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive environment where Black students at Queen’s University can thrive academically, socially, and personally, grounded in the celebration of Black joy and resilience.
We aim to build a strong interconnected network of Black students Alumni and Professionals. hoping to do this by encouraging participation in cultural, academic, and social events that celebrate Black joy, through our collaboration with different student groups on campus and the innovation of our student staff.
We work to offer access to a wide range of resources, including scholarships, wellness programs, and mentorship opportunities. knowing the black students tend to face a vast array of challenges at post-secondary institutions, we want to ensure that students have the tools they need to succeed and feel supported in their academic journey.
In a climate that may not always provide empowerment to black students, we hope to promote leadership and advocacy opportunities to help push black students to the levels of excellence they are able to achieve. this program aims to encourage students to engage in initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and to celebrate resilience in the face of challenges.
to promote success we work to Facilitate access to opportunities that can enhance academic and personal growth. with the help of guest speakers and our resource research we hope to Encourage students to pursue their goals and aspirations with confidence and joy, by providing access to knowledge and connections they might not already have.
Behind the logo:
My name is Uwineza Mugabe, and I'm a master's student in the gender studies department here at Queen's. Through the pandemic, the shifts between online and offline learning and generally finding my place here at queens I've grown a passion for promoting the hidden services here at Queen’s. This year I was blessed with the opportunity to use my art as a way of promoting the Yellow House through the Black @ Queen’s logo. While designing the logo, I consulted with Black students throughout the Queen’s community. We wanted to create an image that portrayed joyous blackness and wanted to used imagery that emphasized the principles of community building, while keeping the attraction broad. I chose to build the logo around a tree because trees tend to have a lot of positive connotations; roots can connect to families or friends which grow into a smiling face to symbolize black joy. The whole design gathers into the bright leaves of the tree meant to form an afro. All this ends with a golden crown, which I hope to use to represent Black excellence, and to also represent this program’s affiliation with Queen’s University.
Learn more about Black student businesses by checking out our Black student business and program booklet!
Rhythm Cycle
Rhythm Cycle is a program dedicated to empowering Black students through physical activity. These are not your average spin classes, each session is filled with words of affirmation and encouragement from teacher and studio owner, Martha Williams, to remind students of their power and resiliency. Each session will enhance students’ wellness and self-confidence. Transportation will be provided. Due to limited capacity, students must sign up in advance to participate. Location: Pedal Works Café & Studios,101C, 1412 Princess St, Kingston, ON K7M 3E5.
Dates: Oct 26; Nov 30; Jan 18; Mar 15. Register here!
Black Swims
Black Swims are for Black Queen’s students, faculty staff and Black Kingston community members. They were created to foster an inclusive environment at the Athletics & Recreation pool. To prioritize Black student swims enhances community building by creating shared spaces where students can connect, support one another and engage in healthy, enjoyable activities. And if you can't swim, don't worry! These swims will include access to Adult swimming lessons, 1, 2, and 3 for free for Black students. It will also allow folks who are comfortable in the water to hangout or swim lanes! Guests are allowed to bring 1 invited loved one. Swims will take place weekly on Fridays 4:30-6pm. The first community swim will be October 18 and the first lessons will begin October 25! Stay tuned for registration details. Register for Community Swims. - Register for Swim Lessons.
Afro Prism
Afro Prism is an empowering space dedicated to celebrating and uplifting Black queer students. The program is designed to create a supportive community where students can connect, share experiences and empower members through education and creativity. This program will be an inclusive environment where every student feels seen, heard and valued, ensuring that all Black queer students have support and resources they need to succeed.
Drag Race Watch Party: Oct 28 - 7pm-9pm & Jan 8 5pm-8pm
Black Queer Dinner Party: Nov 8 - 6:30pm-8:30pm
Bowling Night: Feb 5pm-7pm
Craft & Sip: March 21 (6:30pm-9:30pm)
Black Light
Black Light is a speaker series celebrating and empowering the Black community at Queen’s. The series aims to provide a platform for Black leaders inside and outside of the Queen’s community to affirm, inspire and uplift Black student communities .Events will be held twice each semester.
Homecoming QBAC BBQ: Oct 19 11-2 - Agnes Benidickson Field
Illuminate Your Path with Dr. Grace Adeniyi: Nov 7 - 6:30 pm, Yellow House Cottage - 140 Stuart Street
Stories of Triumph, Janice Reid: March 20, 4:30 pm - Rideau Building, 207 Stuart Street
Resources
Programs and Resources for Black students at Queens
Black student spaces
spaces which black students can book for events and more
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NEST (Queens Medicine Building 4th floor). For Faculty of Health Sciences Students (BHSc, Med, Nursing and Allied Health programs)
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Black Student and Smith Engineering Group Room, Beamish 331
Black Clubs Directory
Our Black Clubs Directory is tailored to support Black students and their unique interests, from advocacy and creativity to academics. Explore our comprehensive list of Black clubs on campus, find contact information, and stay updated on their upcoming events. Join a vibrant community and discover opportunities to connect, grow, and thrive at Queen's. Follow this page for all the latest updates!
Black Scholarship directory
Explore our working list of external scholarships available to Black students in upper-year classes. Follow the link to find more details, including deadlines and an overview of the requirements. This resource is designed to help you access financial support and achieve your academic goals.
Representation and Wellness
Representation
Wellness
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Vanessa Mensah, BIPoC Mental Health Therapist (she/her): To book an appointment with Vanessa, call Student Wellness Services 613-533-2506 (8:00am-4:30pm, Monday-Friday) or email counselling.services@queensu.ca and ask to book with Vanessa by name
NSERC-USRA/USSRF
The NSERC-USRA/USSRF program at Queen’s University provides funding to students interested in summer research. Specifically, the CIHR and SSHRC USRAs are tailored for Black students pursuing health or social science/humanities research. If you're interested, follow the link below for detailed information on how to apply.
NSERC USRA link: https://www.queensu.ca/vpr/funding/external/nserc/usra
USSRF link: https://www.queensu.ca/vpr/funding/internal/ussrf
Past events
