The Delaware Black Student Coalition Inspires Change in Young People

Photo courtesy of Tariah Hyland

Seven young activists across Delaware take a stand with the creation of a statewide coalition to support Black student leaders.

Seven Delaware high school students have come together to mobilize and empower young Black leaders.

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Co-founder Tariah Hyland./Photo courtesy of Tariah Hyland

The Delaware Black Student Coalition is a student-led organization founded in January 2021 by seven Black female activists. Originally developed as a charity foundation, DBSC became a supportive and active organization throughout the months leading up to its launch. The coalition’s founders are all Delaware student leaders who have focused on equity and equality in their communities, according to a prepared statement from the organization.

DBSC reaches across the First State from Wilmington to Magnolia, aiming to connect Black student leaders and empower them to spearhead change within their communities through initiatives like planned events, panel discussions, teach-ins and workshops.

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Tariah Hyland, co-founder and St. Georges Technical High School senior, understands the lack of support as a Black student and not feeling seen or heard. She wanted to create a supportive community for like-minded students to come together and be themselves.

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Co-founder Elise Sampson / Photo courtesy of Tariah Hyland

“I decided to help co-found this outstanding initiative because I understand what It feels like to not be supported as a Black student and to not have access to a space where I am encouraged to fully embrace myself as a Black woman,” she says. “All of the co-founders collectively agreed that is what we will be. The safe place where many Black students from middle school to college from very different backgrounds can come together and just embrace all aspects of their existence as Black student leaders.”

Hyland, along with her co-founders, Lauren Hicks, Amanda Eric, Elise Sampson, Kassidy Parker, Kaylan Parker and Hasana Parker, hope this program cultivates bold, unapologetic leaders and becomes a place where students can embrace themselves fully.

Across the First State, DBSC has welcomed 25 members through its early online recruitment program. DBSC hosts its kick-off event via Zoom at 5 p.m. on March 26. Participants can learn more about the program and ways to support the cause.

To learn more about the Black Student Coalition, visit deblackstudentco.com.

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