Black History and Our HBCU
posted by Dominque Elliott | February 21, 2020 | In Arts and CultureOn November 29, 1867, seven citizens from the Black Fayetteville community founded the Howard School, in order to educate Black children. Eventually, that school became Fayetteville State University, a Historically Black College/University located in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Our school still stands today in 2020 during Black History Month, and students share how going to this HBCU has impacted their experience of the February holiday.
“Going to an HBCU, specifically FSU, it helped me realize that I come from Black excellence,” Tatyanna Montgomery, a freshman biology major proudly said. “Going to FSU gives me a sense of pride, especially during Black History Month. It makes me think deeper about where I come from.”
“Going to an HBCU hasn’t really affected how I celebrate Black History Month. I come from a family where Black history is celebrated all year long,” said Hassaanah Kersey, a senior business administration major. Her sentiment has been shared by other students and faculty as well. “If anything, I believe HBCUs in general should do more to celebrate Black success outside of Black History Month.”
“Coming to FSU made me appreciate Black History Month more,” Kevonda Tillman, another freshman biology major noted. “I was able to learn more about the process people had to go through for me to sit where I am today. I’m definitely glad I decided to come to an HBCU and gained more knowledge about my ancestors.”
Fayetteville State University’s Black identity and legacy of excellence is a central component to students’ experiences, and hopefully we will continue to celebrate and expand our celebration of Black History month as a HBCU.
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