Commanders Host HBCU Day

(Madison Firle/101 Mag)  

The Washington Commanders celebrated the rich history, culture and pride of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) during their fourth annual HBCU Day, against the Tennessee Titans. 

The Commanders are the only team among 32 National Football League(NFL) franchises to dedicate a game to honoring HBCUs and their legacy. The day was filled with activities designed to celebrate and engage the HBCU community. 

Things kicked off with an HBCU tailgate featuring the Commanders’ DJ, DJ P Knock, who started the event with classic HBCU songs, like “Dreams and Nightmares” by Meek Mill and “Wipe Me Down” by Boosie. 

Alumni and students packed the third floor of Northwestern stadium where they enjoyed music, food and fellowship and received an exclusive HBCU-themed t-shirt.

(Madison Firle/101 Mag)  

“It’s really important for us to highlight organizations like these in our stadium of thousands and thousands of people, just so we can share the remarkable work that these organizations have done and continue to do in the DMV area,” said Chanelle Reynolds, the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Washington Commanders.

As pre-game activities moved to the field, two HBCU leaders, Howard University President Ben Vinson III, Ph.D., and Bowie State University President Dr. Aminta H. Breaux, made a special appearance on the sidelines. 

“It’s an incredible celebration of all that HBCUs do, whether that’s from culture to academics and always excellence. So that is really what this is about,” Dr. Vinson said. “I think as the Commanders are striving for their football excellence, they are at the same time celebrating and validating everything that HBCUs do.”The celebration extended into the game, as alumni and current students cheered from the stands and were featured on the jumbotron during the third quarter. The spotlight on HBCU Day underscored its importance, serving as a moment of unity and pride for all in attendance.

As HBCUs continue to gain recognition, leagues like the NFL and teams like the Commanders are stepping up to honor the impact of these HBCUs on culture, tradition and the community at large. 

Dr. Aminta H. Breaux highlighted the critical role professional sports can play in amplifying HBCU voices.

“Well, we continue to show up in preparing our student-athletes. We have strong sports on our team, on our campuses, and I think opening up these opportunities to our campuses,” Breaux said. “What we need to do is create those wider doors for them to walk through and go out into the world and to continue to strengthen our communities.” 

By dedicating events like HBCU Day, the Commanders and the NFL are fostering meaningful connections and shining a well-deserved spotlight on the enduring legacy of HBCUs.