Celebrating Black History Month: The Legacy of HBCUs Advancing Education
February is Black History Month, a time to honor the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history. UNCF (United Negro College Fund) has always supported historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), for which the organization was founded. HBCUs serve as transformative institutions for Black communities, blending academic excellence with a commitment to social progress.
UNCF aligns with the goals of Black History Month, founded in 1976 by historian Carter G. Woodson to spotlight Black achievements and resilience. UNCF-member colleges have worked hard to consistently cultivate leaders who have shaped history.
Morehouse College: Shaping Leaders for Social Change
Morehouse College is a hallmark of Black leadership and social transformation. This historic institution counts among its alumni the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a global icon whose unwavering vision of equality and justice reshaped the United States and continues to inspire movements for human rights and freedom worldwide. The college’s legacy goes beyond its history, nurturing students dedicated to activism, innovation and community engagement.
Spelman College: Preserving a Legacy of Excellence
Spelman College’s history is intricately linked to the broader narrative of Black history. Established in 1881, Spelman transformed from a basement school for formerly enslaved women into one of the nation’s leading liberal arts colleges. The institution’s dedication to social justice and academic excellence remains steadfast, and it regularly honors these principles during Black History Month. Campus events showcase the achievements of its students, faculty and alumnae, emphasizing the college’s role as a beacon of Black empowerment and leadership.
Spelman College alumnae include influential activists like Marian Wright Edelman, Stacey Abrams and Bernice King, all of whom have championed/continue to champion justice and equality through their groundbreaking work in education, politics and civil rights advocacy.
Fisk University: Celebrating Black History Through Song
Fisk University’s Jubilee Singers are vital in preserving Black spirituals, a cornerstone of African American cultural heritage. Founded in 1871, the Jubilee Singers started as a small group of students who traveled internationally to raise funds for their university. Their performances introduced the world to the rich tradition of Black spirituals, ensuring this art form’s survival and global recognition. The Jubilee Singers’ groundbreaking tours enhanced Fisk’s profile and showcased the power of music as a means of cultural preservation.
During Black History Month, Fisk University emphasizes the legacy of the Jubilee Singers through performances and events that honor their contributions to arts and culture. These initiatives foster a deep connection between Fisk’s history and the broader goals of the celebration, highlighting the university’s role in shaping African American identity and heritage.
Dillard University: Bridging Education and Culture
Rooted in New Orleans’ vibrant cultural landscape, Dillard University embodies the spirit of Black History Month through its unique integration of education, arts and community engagement. Each February, the university hosts events celebrating African American achievements while encouraging dialogue on future progress. Dillard’s commitment to honoring heritage ensures it remains a cornerstone of cultural preservation and academic excellence.
Shaw University: Catalyzing Civil Rights Activism
Shaw University is pivotal in civil rights history as the birthplace of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), formed in 1960. SNCC became a driving force in fighting for racial equality, organizing sit-ins, voter registration drives and other crucial civil rights initiatives. Shaw’s role in establishing SNCC underscores its alignment with the goals of Black History Month by fostering activism, empowerment and societal change. This legacy of advocacy and leadership continues to inspire future generations and highlights the university’s enduring impact on Black history and culture
The Ongoing Impact of UNCF Support
UNCF’s unwavering support sustains the mission of HBCUs by providing scholarships and funding to help students thrive. By empowering future generations, UNCF upholds the legacy of Black excellence celebrated during Black History Month and beyond.
Join the Movement This Black History Month
This Black History Month, support the legacy of HBCUs by investing in their impactful mission. Visit UNCF.org to contribute to scholarships and programs that empower the next generation of Black leaders. Your support enables these institutions to continue shaping history, one student at a time