Black Culture Centers & Student Learnig

      In the article "Black Culture Centers: Still Central to Student Learning", Patton (2006) asked whether or not resource centers that serve students from single cultures are still relevant in light of widespread interest in multiculturalism.  Patton argued that these spaces continue to matter to at the very least, black culture centers.  The article described factors such as stereotypes that lead to marginalization, racially divided campus events, a hostile residence environment, and not feeling that their voice is heard, as factors leading to an African American student's decision to withdraw or transfer from a college or university that is predominantly white.   
    When black students at an institution have a physical location where they feel a sense of belonging, Patton (2006) argued that they are more likely to stay enrolled despite any obstacles in the environment.  Patton's (2006)  study revealed that black culture centers make a significant difference in student learning.  These centers facilitate an environment that encourages leadership development.  In addition, these centers help students to gain a sense of community and promote a sense of mattering.  
     Black students now have an increased presence at predominantly white institutions and are not prepared to deal with this increase in the black student population (Patton, 2006).  Opponents of black culture centers criticize them for promoting separatism.  Those who promote black culture centers feel that predominantly white institutions still require black students to operate out of their comfort zone on a daily basis.  Another opposition to black culture centers is that they only serve the needs of black students. Patton (2006) argued that while black culture centers predominantly serve the needs of African American students, they also welcome all people who wish to learn about black culture.  Black culture centers have a tradition of openness.  A misconception exists, too, that black culture centers only provide social opportunities for students. 
     The results of Patton's (2006) study indicated that black culture centers provide a number of benefits to African American students.  These include increased opportunities for student leadership involvement, development of students' African American identity, more pride in their black history, and a welcoming, safe place to go where African American students feel supported. 
     After reading the article, I am interested to learn how the students I interview feel about having a black cultural center on campus.  To me, it seems like a great campus resource for African American students and in my opinion, the benefits seem significant in helping African American students adjust and transition.  I can see the need for both a multicultural office and a black culture center on campus.  It can be left to individual students, as to which office they feel would benefit them most, a culture specific office or a multicultural office. 

Patton, L. D. (2006). Black culture centers: Still central to student learning. About Campus, 11(2), 2-8.