A group of Wartburg College students is leading a movement to revitalize the Black Student Union, and they want others to join them.

Though the student organization has been on campus for years, Ashlee McGrown, president, said membership and engagement have waned recently.

“This is something I am very passionate about. I think it is important to have the Black Student Union on campus,” she said. “It’s a great opportunity to come together and spread awareness to those who want to learn about the culture and community. You don’t have to be black to be part of BSU. Anyone from any background, any race, any ethnicity, can be a member.”

To get the conversation started, the students have launched an awareness campaign dubbed “#WhatIsColor” with the slogan “I’ve never been bothered by my color,” which McGrown said can apply to everyone.

“Everyone should be comfortable in their own skin, whatever shade they are,” she said. “At the end of the day we all have color. It’s a characteristic, but what does it have to do with my character? What does it have to do with my future?”

Others can learn about the BSU and its mission during Renaissance Faire. Students will sell #WhatIsColor bracelets for $2 and “I’ve never been bothered by my color” T-shirts for $10.

The campaign won’t stop there, though. McGrown wants people of all colors to engage in the online conversation and even attend meetings — they meet the third Wednesday of the month at 8:30 p.m. in Whitehouse Business Center 116 — or other events. McGrown said the executive team is already planning alcohol awareness and safe sex events, as well as its annual Hoops for Hope student versus faculty basketball game fundraiser.

The Black Student Union can be found on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at Wartburg BSU.