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By Adji Keinde
Historically Black College Universities were founded in the United States in the early 1960s. They provided a source of education for African Americans who were often neglected in schools. Instead of them getting choices in education they were formed in necessity to segregation. Education should not be limited no matter what race, religion, or orientation you are, you should feel welcomed and not disregarded.
As HBCUs opened their doors to welcome African Americans to a more safe, welcoming, and learning environment. It also opened its doors to criticism and hatred. Which they were made in regard to the practices of segregation and discriminatory actions in public
schools (Historically). HBCUs are a component factory in African American history due to the fact that they provide African Americans with unique opportunities to develop intellectually in a supportive environment, succeed professionally, and build networks essential to advancing social justice (Historically). A justification to that evidence is that graduates from HBCUs are among the most successful African Americans in a wide range of fields. 75% of African Americans with a doctoral degree as well as; 75% of African American officers in the US Armed forces receive high quality education at an HBCU. Also 20% of the African American federal judges received education from HBCUs. That is to say that HBCUs genuinely benefit the African American population as a whole.
Unlike America’s past choice to segregate people from their rights to have an education and be successful in life as they want, HBCUs don’t limit that choice. No matter what race you are, you’re allowed to enroll into an HBCU because there’s never enough people to join the fight. Until today there’s still an imaginary war going on between African Americans and other races.
Therefore there isn’t a limited race or religion you have to be to attend an HBCU. We’re all only there for one purpose and one reason only; the right to education. Furthermore, as the increased enrollment at HBCUs has become favored, changing demographics show that more non African Americans are enrolled into HBCUs and which leaves 80% of African Americans in HBCUs. Therefore 20% of other races want to learn, they also want to have the freedom and liberty to learn.
The relevance of HBCUs is still questioned by second-guessing the ability for HBCUs to provide a valuable educational experience while maintaining financial solvency ( Historically). The costs of updating technology and other resources; gaining qualified faculty; and providing financial support to students in need are most reasons for why they’re questioned of still staying open. However Congress passed the HEA ( Higher Education Act) of 1965.They established a system where schools including HBCUs get scholarships, grants, loans, work/study opportunities, and financial aid. Therefore whatever the HBCUs can’t cover for the students, the HEA will do their part to keep HBCUs open and thriving.
In conclusion HBCUs are open and entitled to everyone as we all want to serve for one purpose and one purpose only. HBCUs are provided to the community or perhaps to the world to view the world with a different eye, and in a different point of view. HBCUs shouldn’t be closed down or even questioned of why they are still relevant, they serve a greater purpose of not just being a school, or a college, but a home to all.