Led by senior Patrick Biamou, Unity Beyond Differences works to provide an inclusive and safe environment for students, as well as break down racial and cultural barriers.
According to Biamou, microaggressions were a motivating factor in starting the club, which he accomplished with the help of Assistant Principal Cathleen Carmignani.
“I started this club because, being an African American student at a school that is predominantly white, I got used to small microaggressions or small acts of racism without people knowing,” Biamou said. “It’s sad that I’ve gotten used to it and that it became a normal thing, and I don’t want anyone else to have that become a normal thing for them in the future.”
Biamou had been thinking about starting the club for months before their first meeting on June 9 of the 2022-2023 school year.
“Ever since the [2022-2023] basketball season ended, I’ve been thinking about what I can do to have a voice,” Biamou said. “I realized I’m comfortable speaking with people and if nobody else is going to do something, then I have to do something if I want change.”
The June 9 meeting featured speaker and author Dr. Tamika N. Jacques.
“I hope that we will be able to establish some events and that students come out feeling supported, heard and that they are the first generation to do this in this area,” Jacques said. “I’m hoping there will be others that come behind them to carry the torch.”
Senior Yakira Ramirez attended the June 9 meeting and believes the club will benefit minorities at ARHS.
“I chose to attend because I liked the sound and the idea of this club being put in place,” Ramirez said. “There isn’t a very big population of minorities that can find refuge in a club where they know that they will not be silenced. There will be a club to represent the minority population in the school.”
Jacques is hopeful for the future of Unity Beyond Differences.
“I hope that it will bring awareness to the community and that all the students will feel supported by seeing their true identities represented within the school,” Jacques said. “I hope that it creates more of a safe space than what they currently feel.”
Through this club, Biamou hopes to make the school a better place. The club’s first meeting this year was held on Sept. 14, and updates will be posted on Instagram @unitybeyonddifferences.
“My main goal is to make any minority at this school feel comfortable at this school and make everyone feel included and safe,” Biamou said.
