One of the reasons why I opted to attend Howard University, a historically Black university (HBCU), is because I was always one of the only Black people in my classes…particularly the advanced ones. I was smart but socially, I was deemed too White for the Black kids and too Black for the white kids. It hurt, but I never allowed that to trump the importance of getting my education so that I could leave my small, suburban Southern town with swiftness. Howard was the first place where I could just be. I didn’t have to code switch in casual conversation for fear of being judged or apologize for wearing dresses instead of skinny jeans or hide the fact that I preferred Little Dragon over Lil’ Wayne. For many, many reasons, I couldn’t see myself not attending an HBCU. Howard University was by far one of the best decisions that I have and will ever make in my life.
Some of my friends from back home opted to attend predominately White institutions. We’d exchange stories about experiences in and outside of the classroom. Occasionally, they’d express envy towards my HBCU experience. One once told me that even though she lived on campus and was active in extracurricular activities and in Greek life, she still felt detached from her school because of her race.
I, Too, Am Harvard is a “photo campaign highlighting the faces and voices of Black students at Harvard College,” as described on its highly buzzed about Tumblr page. Students address the misconceptions and the stereotypes that have been thrown their way at one of the most prestigious institutions in the world. I believe that while ignorance is inherited, it’s reversible with awareness and open dialogue. Hopefully this campaign will spark necessary discussions not only at Harvard, but at universities across the country. No one of any race or gender should feel guilty about something as important as getting an education.
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[Lead image via I, Too, Am Harvard]
'I, Too, Am Harvard' Discusses the "Burden of Being Black in the Classroom”
