“Historically Black” exhibit, open through Dec. 12, celebrates the state’s historically Black colleges and community colleges
By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS | Adapted from Adyson Saunders, Crew 75, Alabama A&M University
Long before the 85th Magic City Classic kicked off at Legion Field, Alabama A&M University’s history was already on display a few miles away.
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute’s exhibition “Historically Black: An Exhibit Honoring Alabama’s HBCUs” opened Oct. 23 and runs through Dec. 12. It celebrates the state’s 14 historically Black institutions, eight historically Black colleges and universities and six historically Black community colleges, with artifacts, photographs, documents and memorabilia.
The exhibit was co-curated with the participating schools, including Alabama A&M, Alabama State, Oakwood, Drake State, Tuskegee, Miles, Stillman and Talladega. BCRI notes that Alabama is home to more HBCUs than any other state.
AAMU’s University Archives and Special Collections contributed historical materials, including photographs spanning decades of campus moments, student life and University traditions. Veronica D. Henderson, director of the J.F. Drake Memorial Learning Resources Center and State Black Archives Research Center and Museum, confirmed the archives’ contribution.
For today’s students, the photographs are a chance to meet the Bulldogs who came before them. The display also reflects the University’s reach beyond campus, through graduates who became leaders in their communities.
The exhibit’s timing, alongside the Classic between Alabama A&M and Alabama State, was a reminder that HBCU culture reaches far beyond the football field. It is a shared history of educational opportunity, achievement and tradition that continues to shape new generations.
Plan your visit: The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is at 520 16th St. N. in Birmingham. Galleries are closed Wednesday, Nov. 11, for Veterans Day and reopen Thursday, Nov. 12. Details are at bcri.org.