More Than a Party

More than a Party: The Cultural Significance of Howard Homecoming

By - Keely Aouga & Amarie Betancourt

Homecoming is a tradition that transcends rivalries, parties, and pop-outs. It’s a celebration of Black joy.

Homecoming at “The Mecca” made its return to campus on Oct 15. through Oct. 22.

For most of the student body, this is their first time experiencing a traditional Howard Homecoming as a student.

Anthony Asante-Danso, a sophomore, described his pandemic experience as “desensitizing and isolating” after “not having much real human interaction and experiencing everything through the internet and social media, I’m finally getting back to normal.”

“Coming back to college out of a pandemic was almost like an alternate reality,” he continued. The second-year student doesn’t stand alone in these feelings. For students like Asante-Danso, homecoming is an opportunity to finally be able to connect with fellow bison. Joy Richardson, a freshman at Howard, described the cherished tradition as “the crown jewel” of the HBCU experience.

“Each homecoming brings communities of educated Black people in for a time of pure culture and fun,” said Richardson. “I’m so excited for Homecoming week and the new experiences. I have always heard that Howard Homecoming was the best of the best, pulling in alumni and potential students from everywhere to participate.” As the most anticipated time on campus, Homecoming encompasses all that is a Historically Black College.

The tradition originated at Morehouse College when alumni got together to show school spirit during a 1924 football game. What began as a way for graduates to reunite and support sporting events, became a celebration of Black culture that would eventually extend to schools across the country. This year is especially significant for the current senior class. After spending a large part of their college experience under COVID-19 restrictions, this will be their final chance to experience Homecoming as undergraduates.

Kiah George, a senior, attended Howard University expecting to experience at least four homecomings. Unfortunately, George only experienced one–three years ago. This year, her perspective has shifted. “Homecoming is a time for us to celebrate our Blackness,” said George. “But most importantly, I am looking forward to the networking opportunities. Especially with me leaving college, and starting my adult life. I am looking to form new connections and engage with more people, as I'm interested Despite being wary of large crowds post-quarantine, Howard graduate, Ama Aduse looked forward to Howard Homecoming living up to its legacy.

“HBCU culture sets the precedent for Black culture and as an extension of pop culture as a whole,” she said. “Howard specifically provides a platform for anyone who is trying to make strides in the fashion, art, and music industries to gain exposure.”

As an alumna, Aduse understands just how crucial these four years of undergraduate education are to your development as an individual. “After two years of isolation, it will be impactful for students especially to gather with people who are like-minded, sharing in their experiences, culture, and nuances,” she said.

With a fully in-person homecoming, nothing stopped the Howard community from keeping up the traditions, joy, and excitement that is an HBCU Homecoming.