Restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted many programs and organizations in the Fairfax County Public School System. As these restrictions began to be lifted, Kaiya Williams became aware of a new opportunity: the creation of the Black Student Union (BSU) at McLean High School. The goal was to provide a voice for the students in the African American community.
Kaiya described an incident that occurred that first year, when a school landmark decorated and displayed by the BSU was defaced. The fledgling BSU appreciated the support it received from the school administration and from classmates. It was a significant moment in the early life of the BSU, and gave confidence that their vision and efforts had broad support.
As a sophomore, Kaiya was actively involved with other students in forming the BSU at McLean High School right after the COVID-19 restrictions were lifted. Since then, the BSU has been an active and vocal participant in the life of the McLean High School community. Now, as a senior, Kaiya is the President of the BSU, a leadership position which demands a significant commitment of time and energy. Last year, for example, the BSU organized a field trip to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. A similar event is planned for the Spring of this year to the Smithsonian Museum of African Art.
In late October, immediately following the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East, the BSU decided to join in a peaceful walk-out in solidarity with the Muslim Student Association. Led by Kaiya, the BSU felt that participation in this walk-out would help to ease possible tensions at McLean High School through a tangible commitment to peaceful, non-violent resolution of disagreements and potential conflict around a divisive issue. Under her leadership, student membership in the BSU has continued to increase, with increasing participation and support of the faculty and school administration. The BSU also maintains contacts with similar groups at other schools in Fairfax County.
In addition to her work with the BSU, Kaiya has a personal history of service to the community. Especially meaningful to her is help for elementary school students with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) topics and activities. Kaiya says that developing competence in STEM subjects is an important way to prepare for a successful life and career. She has also participated in volunteer clean-up programs, and in preparing food for homeless and indigent people. Last year, she also participated in a walk-out at McLean High School in support of LGBTQ+ students during the change in leadership for the Fairfax County Public School System.