By John Collins-Muhammad, Democrat for State Representative, 77th District
Critics have labeled them as a race-based anachronism. Others have said even worse things: Calling them inferior, they need a new overall mission, or they should be merged with the mainstream predominantly white intuitions. Yet, the data show that Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s) contribute significantly not only to the local economies in which they reside in, but to the national economy as well, and in spite of fewer resources. In an age of increasing racial and ethnic diversity, do we still need HBCU’s?
Provost & Senior Vice President, Dr. Said L. Sewell of Lincoln University in Jefferson City, MO., says “HBCU’s provide a ethnically affirming, expressively supportive environment. Students don’t have to prove they belong here.” Lincoln University offers intentional and focused academic support systems say Sewell.
Statistics from the U.S. Department of Education show, HBCU’s represent approximately less than 5% of colleges in the United States but enroll at least 13% of all Black colleges students and produce at least 23% of all Black college graduates. They also educate half of the nation’s Black teachers and 40% of all Black health professionals. And they do this with much less funding support than that of traditionally white institutions.
HBCUs like the newly freed black families of the 19th century, often started out with meager resources. In spite of their struggles, ranging from insignificant budgets, weakening infrastructures, and revenue, HBCUs have proudly done more with less while simultaneously out-stepping majority institutions in training and producing most of the nation's black professionals. Correspondingly, it has been reported that more than 75% of all black doctorate degree holders earned their undergraduate degrees at HBCUs.
John Collins-Muhammad is a Democrat from St. Louis, MO., and is a candidate for Missouri State Representative of the 77th House District. Primary Elections are August 2, 2016. Please considering supporting John by donating $3 to his campaign!