The University of Wisconsin-Superior’s Black Student Union kicked off Black History Month by spreading the word on healthy living.

The BSU held “Healthy Alternatives for Soulful Living” on Thurs., Feb. 2. Kym Young, organizer of Thursday’s event, wanted to shed more light on health issues that affect many African Americans such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

Booths were set up with information regarding diabetes and eating healthy, and free blood pressure checks were offered from Essentia Health. Memorial Blood Centers also held a free blood typing booth in anticipation for the UW-Superior blood drive on Feb. 15.

A’viands cooked chicken for students in the Yellowjacket Union, but used methods to show how soul food can still be tasty and healthy. The event also featured goodies like fruit snacks that weren’t loaded full of sugar or preservatives to entice students to learn more about keeping healthy while going to school.

“We just want to promote healthy lifestyles not just for African American students but for all students on campus,” Young said.