She wanted to hold on to the Black culture she knew well. Another argued that skin color is a factor, something he can instantly relate to, and he admits he finds it comforting. Black is a political term, having to do not with ancestry or biology, but with power and perception. It is a political statement, with a specific historical context and meaning, which has changed from generation to generation. Black ethnicity, Black race, and Black culture are all different.
Black culture is fluid, it changes from place to place and over time.
One student discussed the difference in the learning environment at MIT from his background in inner city schools. Noted that he appreciated the support he got from other students with similar experiences, especially given the low numbers of African-American students. One student spoke of her fear of rejection, that as a member of the BSU she felt that she would not be welcome at meetings of the African Students Association or Caribbean Club. Also OME is also closed to International students. African and African-American students both claim to be willing to bridge the gap that divides them, but when an attempt is made to hold a joint event, very few show up.