Fresno State’s Black Student Union (BSU) hosted a line dance party on Feb. 2 in the Free Speech Area. 

The event was hosted in collaboration with the Red Wavettes, Fresno State’s competitive African American majorette team.

Inspired by southern line dancing, the group was founded in 2023 after being rebranded from Dance Express, a former dance group that was disbanded due to COVID-19. The Red Wavettes incorporate a hybrid style of dancing, including many different dance styles and music in their work, from jazz and hip-hop to modern and contemporary dancing. 

While music played, the Red Wavettes Head Coach Brinesha Woods would lead the team and anyone willing to join in on the easy-to-follow line dances.

“If you’re able to move your left and right foot, you’re able to do it,” Woods said. “I love this style of dancing because it is meant for everybody and not just technique.” 

As the start of Black History Month is underway, the BSU wanted to kick it off with an event that is essential to Black culture as well as something that can be enjoyed by everyone, according to Krysalyn Jacobs, vice president of BSU, event coordinator and women’s studies major. 

“Every time you hear a line dance song come on, everyone comes to the dance floor,” Jacobs said. “It’s just a vibe and a cultural presence that is so important.” 

She believes events like these are crucial to showing the Fresno State student body that although the Black community on campus is small, it is still strong, and it has a voice to present its culture and celebration of Black History Month. 

“My goal before I leave Fresno State is to have an established community and group of people to be aware that we are here and have our voices known,” Jacobs said. 

Correction: This story was adjusted on Feb. 3 at 9:56 p.m. to correct the date of the Black Student Union line dance event.