It is not too often that you hear “diversity” and “HBCU” (Historically Black College or University) in the same sentence, let alone in the same thought. In fact, it’s more common to think “HBCU” and think “all black student body”, when in actuality that is not the case. While HBCUs are indeed historically black and prominently black they offer more diversity than what is noted or in some cases celebrated. HBCUs offer diversity within their prominently black student body alone, as each student offers a different background, upbringing, and mentality. While they share the same racial background they do not share the exact same life experience making their environment complex. HBCUs also, as any other university, provide diversity within having students of different ethnic backgrounds, religious beliefs, and sexual/gender orientations.
Being that I go to Clark Atlanta University, I have the pleasure of getting a taste campus life at Morehouse College and Spelman College. What I admire and what is the root of me writing this article is the way Spelman celebrates diversity. For those who do not know, Spelman is not the most diverse campus within the Atlanta University Center, Clark is. However, Spelman’s approaches to display their diversity show a magnitude of support. On my most recent trips to Spelman college, I noticed the display of global flags in Upper Manly. It is important for any college to provide global consciousness, especially an HBCU, as HBCUs are typically criticized for “not providing a real world experience”. Spelman’s hallway of flags is a physical action and visual representation of what they provide their students with: global awareness and appreciation.
Spelman College Upper Manley
Another thing I admire at Spelman is their LGBTQ+ acceptance and appreciation. Despite being a private college in the south with a strong Baptist religious affiliation, Spelman goes beyond the “conservative” archetype they fall under. The week of April 16th-21st was Queer Week at Spelman. Their first ever LGBTQ+ organization, Afrekete organized the week-long celebration of queerness, honoring inclusivity in the AUC. The events included painting the windows of lower Manley, a panel discussion on sexualities, a drag show, an open mic, and a queer prom to top it all off. It was commendable to see such an open-ended support for a community that is often marginalized, especially within the Black community.
Spelman College Lower Manley
While I see many universities speak on being diverse and appreciative of diversity I rarely see in action, especially at HBCUs. Diversity is critical in education because it teaches consciousness and understanding. Being at Clark has showed me my institution’s room for improvement and I hope to initiate more than bare minimum displays of diversity. What I’ve seen at Spelman really touched my heart and I hope to see that type of support at all HBCUs especially within the AUC because all three institutions here speak on inclusion, but Spelman acts on it. I love my HBCU with all my heart but I have to give credit where it’s due! Shout out to the number one HBCU in the country. I see y’all.