8 of 10

The HBCU Culture Homecoming Fest & Battle Of The Bands MLK Weekend Edition

Source: Paras Griffin / Getty

HBCUs are much more than homecomings. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have provided and continue to provide crucial centers for education, empowerment, and community for Black students. Founded during a time when segregation kept many African Americans from accessing college educations, HBCUs became the places where Black students could obtain a valuable education, while also celebrating Black culture within a safe place to commune.

Jackson State University 'The Merge'

Source: Jackson State University / Getty

That strong legacy continues today, with HBCUs continuing to fulfill the dual role of educating and empowering our future leaders. With smaller class sizes, supportive faculty, and strong alumni networks, HBCUs offer students the resources necessary to excel both personally and professionally, while also strengthening the legacy of excellence in Black communities.

HU vs FAMU

Source: The Washington Post / Getty

If you went to an HBCU, tell us in the comments where you went and what you loved about the experience!

RELATED CONTENT: Beyoncé & Jay Z Launch HBCU Scholarship Program At 5 Select Schools

North Carolina Central University: The Ultimate Homecoming Game Day

Source: North Carolina Central University / Getty

Here’s our list of 10 reasons why it’s HBCUs over everything! And check out our friends at OkayPlayer for another 10 reasons!

1. Incredible Alumni!

Vice President Harris Attends DNC Event On Voting Rights At Howard University

Source: Getty

With Howard alum Vice President Kamala Harris currently running for the highest elected office in the United States, HBCUs have serious bragging rights.  Other outstanding HBCU alums include Chadwick Boseman (Howard), Spike Lee (Morehouse), Debbie Allen (Howard) and K. Michelle (FAMU), just to name a few.

3. Marching Bands

Prairie View A&M v Florida A&M

Source: Getty

HBCU marching bands attract some of the best musicians in the country. Not only can they play your favorite artists’ songs on classical instruments — they can play them while all out dancing in formation! There’s a reason why many of the best HBCU bands are in high demand for Thanksgiving and New Year’s parades!

10. Fun Traditions

North Carolina Central University: The Ultimate Homecoming Game Day

Source: Getty

Each school does different things starting from freshman year to instill pride in students.

RELATED CONTENT: These Sorority Sisters Launched A Vegan Lipstick Line To Fund Scholarships At FAMU