Recently Alabama State University made history as the first Historical Black College to play against a Division 1 school in football and to play at the Rose Bowl Stadium. In celebration of this historical moment, ASU in collaboration with the Office of Councilwoman Heather Hutt hosted a HBCU Community day at the newly opened Michelle and Barack Obama Sports Complex.
“We are proud to have partnered with ASU to provide an opportunity to highlight historical black colleges. We know and understand the value of education and this event will provide an opportunity for a timely conversation on how our students, stakeholders, communities and organizations can engage with HBCUs in the future as well as support the next generation of HBCU leaders,” said 10th District Caretaker, Heather Hutt.
For students in Los Angeles, the presence, pomp, and pageantry of having an HBCU play at The Rose Bowl Stadium, provides a level of representation that has yet to be seen in Socal and exposes them to a viable alternative to receive a credible and accredited education from an HBCU.
“This wasn't just a game, but an historic barrier breaking moment that promotes diversity, inclusion, and equality in collegiate sports. We are happy to have brought our HBCU spirit to the City of LA,” said event organizer and President of the Alabama State University NAA Los Angeles Chapter, Vanda Lee.
The day Featured a full day of festivities, followed by a special ASU band performance and pep rally. The event, was free and open to the public incorporated over 40 local minority-owned vendors – including Kool Kids, Fraiche Signatures, The Bleu, Kick’n’ Cajun and more – as well as a live DJ.