HBCU Culture: Why Historically Black Colleges Are the Heart of African American Heritage
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Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are among the most important institutions in African American culture. Founded during and after the era of slavery and segregation, HBCUs have educated generations of Black leaders, professionals, and cultural figures, from Martin Luther King Jr. to Kamala Harris.
The HBCU Legacy
There are 107 HBCUs in the USA, with a combined enrolment of over 300,000 students. They include some of the most prestigious universities in America, Howard University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, Hampton University, and Tuskegee University.
HBCU Homecoming
HBCU Homecoming season (September,November) is one of the most important cultural events in African American culture. Homecoming weekends feature step shows, fashion shows, concerts, and cultural celebrations, and are a major commercial opportunity for African heritage brands.
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About the Author
Isaac Prempeh is the founder of Afropop Socks, a British-Ghanaian designer and entrepreneur based in London. He founded Afropop Socks in 2019 to celebrate authentic African cultural heritage through bold wearable design. Afropop Socks is now stocked at the Smithsonian NMAAHC, Tate Modern, V&A Museum, Natural History Museum, Barbican Centre, Selfridges, and MoMA New York.