Black Student Space

About the space

The Black Student Space is an identity-affirming space available only for Black undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled at the UBC Vancouver campus. Students can use the space to  connect with peers , recharge, host events , and build community. They can also access networks, programming, and resources that are specific, relevant, and representative of Black experiences, intersectional identities, and cultures. 

The Black Student Space recognizes that anti-Black racism exists in all systems, including higher education, and provides a safe space and dedicated support that contributes to Black students’ academic success, personal growth, and wellbeing. All staff and faculty are welcome to organize programming and resources in the space that support the needs and interests of Black UBC Students.

History of the Black Student Space

The Black Student Space was opened in fall 2023 by the Office of the Vice-President Students and the Centre for Student Development and Leadership, in consultation and co-creation with the UBC Black student community on the Vancouver campus. It is an intentional step in response to the Student Strategic Plan (strategies 4 and 9), as well as the Anti-Racism and Inclusive Excellence Recommendations Taskforce Report (recommendations 3 and 41). 

Location and layout

The space is located in the Exchange Building (5960 Student Union Boulevard) and consists of an Upper and Lower area that cater to different activities: 

  • The Upper Space, located on the second level, is a dedicated quiet area for studying, individual contemplation, meditation, and other quiet activities. See how it looks with the interactive tool.
  • The Lower Space includes a lounge space for napping and resting, as well as a large open area for events and group activities. Students, staff, and faculty can book the Lower Space. Find out how it looks with the interactive tool.

Space amenities and features

To ensure a welcoming space, the Black Student Space offers multi-purpose activities from baking, hosting movie nights, reflecting and writing, to hosting events.

Review the lists below to learn more about the amenities available in each space.

  • Quiet study and contemplation area
  • Beanbag chairs
  • Ample charging outlets
  • Library
  • Meeting room with capacity for 6 to 8 people
  • Whiteboards and bulletin boards
  • Moveable furniture for study, group activities, and events
  • Lounge and napping area with couches and fireplace
  • Television and projector
  • Board games
  • Kitchens with oven, microwaves, refrigerators, small appliances, dishes, and cutlery
  • Showers and lockers
  • Printer and scanner
  • Refreshments 
  • Ramp access at the main building entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible gender-neutral bathrooms and shower facilities
  • Wheelchair accessible automated doors
  • Soft lighting and warm paint colours
  • Elevator access between Upper and Lower Spaces

Opening hours

The Black Student Space is closed on all statutory holidays observed by UBC.

  • Monday: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
  • Tuesday: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
  • Wednesday: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
  • Thursday: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
  • Friday: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
black student space puzzle

How to access the Black Student Space

The space is open to all currently enrolled UBC Vancouver students who identify as Black, including, but not limited to, those of Black African descent, African-American, African-Canadian, Afro-Caribbean, Afro-Latinx, and Afro-Indigenous heritage.

To access the Black Student Space, please complete the sign up form below. Requests are processed bi-weekly. You will receive a confirmation email once your access is approved.

For urgent access, email bss.info@ubc.ca.

Sign up for access
black student space activities

Events and activities

The space offers events and activities that cater to the diversity of Black experiences, intersectional identities, and cultures. Students are invited to build community both within and beyond UBC, through programming and events offered by staff, faculty, community partners, and Black student groups at UBC.

If you’re a Black student, Black student group, or staff member interested in booking the space, please review our Community and Booking Guidelines and submit the form below. All bookings must align with the mandates and principles of the Black Student Space.

Submit your booking request

If you have questions

Please email bss.info@ubc.ca for more information.

A UBC staff member will also be available at the Black Student Space to support and connect with students.