Historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are institutions of higher education in the United States that were established before the Civil Rights Act of 1964 with the intention of primarily serving African Americans. Most of these institutions were founded during the Reconstruction era and are concentrated in the Southern United States. During the period of racial segregation in the United States, the majority of American institutions of higher education served predominantly white students and disqualified or limited black American enrollment.
For a century after the abolition of American slavery in 1865, most colleges and universities in the Southern United States prohibited African Americans from attending, while institutions in other parts of the country regularly employed quotas to limit admissions of Black people. HBCUs were established to provide more opportunities to African Americans and are largely responsible for establishing and expanding the African-American middle class.
There are 101 HBCUs in the United States (of 121 institutions that existed during the 1930s), representing three percent of the nation's colleges, including public and private institutions.27 offer doctoral programs, 52 offer master's programs, 83 offer bachelor's degree programs, and 38 offer associate degrees. Among the graduates of HBCUs are civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., United States Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, and United States Vice President Kamala Harris.
Executive Summary: The HBCU Movement
The HBCU Movement is a pioneering initiative dedicated to celebrating and empowering the exceptional talent within Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through the platform of professional basketball. Our vision is to create a transformative space where HBCU athletes can shine on a national stage, while fostering community engagement and social impact. As the first-ever professional basketball team exclusively featuring HBCU athletes, we are committed to showcasing their skills, promoting education, and making a positive difference in the lives of individuals and communities.
About The HBCU Movement:
The HBCU Movement is a trailblazing organization founded with a mission to elevate HBCU basketball to unprecedented heights. We believe in the unique contributions and rich legacy of HBCUs in the world of sports and beyond. By harnessing the power of basketball, we aim to:
Showcase Excellence: Our team serves as a platform for HBCU athletes to demonstrate their exceptional talent, dedication, and hard work. We provide them with an opportunity to compete at the professional level and inspire future generations. Celebrate Heritage: We celebrate the historical and cultural significance of HBCUs, showcasing their vital role in shaping the landscape of education and athletics. Through our events, we amplify the pride and legacy of these institutions.
Empower Communities: The HBCU Movement is not just about sports; it's about creating positive change. We engage with communities through outreach initiatives, youth programs, and scholarships, emphasizing the importance of education and community upliftment.
Drive Social Impact: We leverage our platform to raise awareness about social issues and promote initiatives that drive positive social change. By uniting athletes, fans, and partners, we amplify our collective impact on society.
Champion Diversity: Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is at the core of our identity. We recognize and celebrate the diversity within the HBCU community and its valuable contributions to sports and society.
As we embark on this exciting journey, we invite you to join us in celebrating the extraordinary athletes, institutions, and values that define the HBCU Movement. Together, we can create a legacy of excellence, inspiration, and positive transformation.