Hello. I am supposed to be attending a HBU in the fall but

Good evening! Thank you for reaching out. First, I want to congratulate you on getting into an HBCU. This is a big accomplishment and I commend you for your efforts. In regards to the present funding crisis, I understand your concern. This is a very uncertain time particularly for African American students. Here is some information you should know:

The government's attack on HBCU funding is already happening. On February 20th, the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) temporarily suspended its 1890 scholars program which aimed "to increase the number of agriculture students at the country's 19 historically Black land-grant universities"(Reuters). A month earlier, the Department of Education released its infamous "Dear colleague letter" which threatened federal funding cuts to any educational institution utilizing DEI policies. Though some of these actions have been repealed, it is still unclear as to how the U.S. government will try to eliminate DEI from universities.

For now, rest assured that HBCUs are currently aware of this concerning issue and have made it clear that this threat will not hinder their ability to continue education. They are prepared to look for other funding options in case their federal funding is cut off. Hence, I urge you to stay encouraged amid these attacks! Despite the government's efforts to hinder the educational opportunities of African Americans, HBCUs have a plan to ensure students, like yourself, are able to receive the education they deserve.