Dear BP Readers,
Throughout the pandemic and over the past four years The Blackprint has been a positive outlet for me. I'm glad I made the decision to attend the interest meeting my freshman year instead of allowing imposter syndrome thoughts or introverted tendencies get the best of me (I definitely debated taking a nap over attending the meeting). Being on The Blackprint and leading it has been one of the best experiences I've had in college. I'm so grateful that I was a part of this amazing publication and had the opportunity to watch it grow from the beginning. Graduating is bittersweet— it's more bitter than sweet during a global pandemic — but I am happy and comforted that The Blackprint will continue to shine and create a legacy because I know the Executive Board and Staff will take this publication to new heights. I will be wearing my BP sweater and t-shirt until the wheels fall off— not only to take a stand against consumer culture but because I love it that much. Thank you to the BP Team for your hard work this semester, I will miss our weekly pitch meetings that sometimes went off-topic (I often digress lol). This is Issue 6 of our Zine and although it's not what we planned for the zine this semester, we felt it was important to elevate voices and share the ideas and experiences of AU students of color during this pandemic. We hope you enjoy.
Stay safe and healthy.
With Love,
Zshekinah
Dear BP Readers,
The past few weeks have had me feeling like the world is spinning around me while I'm at a standstill, and I am sure that is the case for many of you as well. But looking back on my last four years at American University has brought me nothing but peace. Being a part of The BP family will have a lasting impact on my life. Witnessing our former EIC's persevere, lead, and pave the way is just one reason why I will forever be indebted to The Blackprint. Zshekinah and I are the last members that have been a part of The Blackprint since it was founded in 2016 and I don't think any of us imagined it would be what it is today. Our staff continues to grow and our executive board is consistently coming up with the dopest ideas. I am blessed to have had the opportunity to lead such an amazing group of people. While it is scary to think about how things may change in the future, with so much uncertainty. I am confident that The Blackprint will sustain and continue to fill the gap by representing communities of color at AU and in the region. Thank you for an amazing 4 years, and for keeping my love for digital media aflame.
Love,
Tainaya
