Ujima
Ujima
About the Collection
Originally published in 1974, Ujima newspaper and newsletter provided a platform for Loyola Marymount University's Black Student Freedom Alliance (BSFA) to inspire students on campus to engage in the third principle of Kwanzaa for which the publication was named: Ujima means "collective work and responsibility." As printed in the first issue of Ujima newspaper, their goal was "to inform, advertise and hopefully, educate” a growing and active Black student body.
In the early 1970s, achievements made by student campus activists and new funding allocated to building a program for Afro-American studies prompted the formation of the Black Student Freedom Alliance (BSFA). They aimed to maintain and strengthen connections between university administration and the Black student population. Ujima newspaper and newsletter acted as critical communication channels between these two groups.
Using these publications, student journalists celebrated Black student talent and academic achievement recognized at the Afro-American Center Achievement Awards Program, promoted campus support services and professional societies, showcased social activities, and publicized the BSFA’s lively Black Cultural Week festivities. Furthermore, Ujima published letters and interviews with President Merrifield and raised awareness regarding classes offered by the Afro-American academic program. These publications united Black student voices and aided in cultivating a new generation of Black scholars and professionals.
The William H. Hannon Library is grateful for the support from the Bill Hannon Foundation that made possible the digitization of the Ujima collection.
About the Collection
Originally published in 1974, Ujima newspaper and newsletter provided a platform for Loyola Marymount University's Black Student Freedom Alliance (BSFA) to inspire students on campus to engage in the third principle of Kwanzaa for which the publication was named: Ujima means "collective work and responsibility." As printed in the first issue of Ujima newspaper, their goal was "to inform, advertise and hopefully, educate” a growing and active Black student body.
In the early 1970s, achievements made by student campus activists and new funding allocated to building a program for Afro-American studies prompted the formation of the Black Student Freedom Alliance (BSFA). They aimed to maintain and strengthen connections between university administration and the Black student population. Ujima newspaper and newsletter acted as critical communication channels between these two groups.
Using these publications, student journalists celebrated Black student talent and academic achievement recognized at the Afro-American Center Achievement Awards Program, promoted campus support services and professional societies, showcased social activities, and publicized the BSFA’s lively Black Cultural Week festivities. Furthermore, Ujima published letters and interviews with President Merrifield and raised awareness regarding classes offered by the Afro-American academic program. These publications united Black student voices and aided in cultivating a new generation of Black scholars and professionals.
The William H. Hannon Library is grateful for the support from the Bill Hannon Foundation that made possible the digitization of the Ujima collection.