The History of Black Faculty and Staff at Brooklyn College 

On May 26th, 1971, 34 Black Faculty and Staff at Brooklyn College penned an open letter to then Brooklyn College President John Kneller on the ‘elements of the Jewish Defense League’s provoked attack on Black students in the basement of the cafeteria of the Student Union Building.’ This act of advocacy and activism was the genesis for the founding of the Black Faculty and Staff Association at Brooklyn College. 

The history of the Black Faculty and Staff at Brooklyn College is marked by significant events and developments:

• 1971-1976: Foundational Period

  • BFSA addressed issues of racial conflict, advocating for affirmative action and concerns regarding Black faculty and staff on campus.
  • Advocated for the rights and positions of Black individuals in administrative roles, departments, and student support services.
  • Raised concerns about budget cuts impacting minority faculty and staff, leading to discussions and letters to the college president.

• 1981-2015: Community Engagement and Educational Initiatives

  • Organized events, including lecture series and scholarship fundraisers, in collaboration with the Africana Studies Department, highlighting Black history and promoting educational support.
  • Published the first newsletter, DRUM, and engaged in various activities to foster a sense of community among Black faculty and staff.

• 2016-Present Day: Renewal and Empowerment

  • Underwent a period of revitalization in 2015, restructuring and reconstituting the association with new executive officers and changing the name to Black Faculty and Staff at Brooklyn College.
  • Hosted events focusing on health, wellness, scholarship receptions, and graduate recognitions.
  • Advocated for mental health awareness, organizing training sessions for faculty, staff, and students in collaboration with external organizations.
  • Previous BFS scholarship renamed  the Carrie Roberts Scholarship 
  • Instituted The Donning of the Kente Graduation Ceremony in 2022 
  • Started annual Maroon and Black week of events surround Black Solidarity Day in November 2023 

Throughout its history, BFS has consistently addressed issues of representation, advocacy, and community engagement, striving to empower and support Black faculty, staff, and students at Brooklyn College.