About Us

Founded in 1968 (50+ years strong and still running!), the Black Caucus serves as an instrument of change, community building, and professional support. As the oldest culturally-based affinity group in the UC System, the Black Caucus is built on a foundation of social justice advocacy. During the Civil Rights Movement Black workers at UCSF, known as the “basement people” because of their disparate working conditions, went on strike to advocate for change. The Janitors Strike at UCSF was the catalyst for institutional change that resulted in recruitment and retention efforts for historically underrepresented students, faculty, and staff. Current leaders of the Black Caucus strive to uphold the legacy of our founding members.

Ways to Get Involved

As a volunteer staff organization, we depend on the engagement of our members to support the success of the organization. Here are a few of the many ways to get involved:

• Donate: Support our community events and outreach efforts by donating.
• Advocacy: Join the advocacy working group to assess the needs of the community and identify strategies to support change.
• Communication: Our communications team is a vital part of the team. This working group oversees the design and content of our monthly newsletter, The Black Bulletin, social media management, and website development.
• Cultural History: James Baldwin once said, “If you know whence you came, there are absolutely no limitations to where you can go.” This working group strives to capture and organize the historical memories of our founding and legendary members.
• Events: Build community through by organizing socials, mixers, and other fun activities.
• Membership: Help spread the word about the Black Caucus to our UCSF community by visiting our different UCSF sites, tabling at events, and sharing information.
• Professional Development: Support the professional skill building and advancement of the community by organizing learning opportunities, speaker series, and mentorship events.
• Social Justice: Expand awareness of social justice concerns and encourage positive action to make systemic change.

Recurrent Events

Annual events normally include Black Heritage Month Gala, Day at the Races, Spring Social, Black Eatz and more. Look for innovative new events as we adjust to life under COVID-19, and the eventual return of our traditional gatherings.

Current Steering Committee (2020-21)