By Victoria Mejicanos
AFRO Staff Writer
The Orioles will celebrate historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and the Divine Nine organizations at Camden Yards on Sept. 18, with a special pregame concert headlined by R&B singer Lloyd.
Lloyd shared his excitement to celebrate the HBCU and Divine Nine communities.
“To me, it’s more than just a baseball game,” he said. “It is really about remembering the sacrifices made –making sure that we are there to lift each other up in hard times as a community.”
Lloyd also shared his belief that music can be a unifier, saying that music can be the “conduit” between the worlds of political activism, sports and education.
“I think it’s awesome that they invited me to be a part of this, and I’m really looking forward to it,” Lloyd said. He wouldn’t speak too much on exactly what he is performing, as to not ruin the surprise, but Lloyd did speak to the AFRO about his song “Tru.”
“The actual message is about everyone being accepted for who they are, for what they are, for how they are and not having to change, or have the pressure or the fear of not being accepted for what they are,” said Lloyd. “Being appreciated and recognized is beautiful.”
“I think that the City of Baltimore is a reflection of a song like ‘Tru,’ he continued. “I think HBCUs are a reflection of a song like ‘Tru.’ And I hope that at the end of the day, we just have some fun.”
Kerry Watson, Orioles executive vice president of public affairs, said in a statement to the AFRO that although he did not attend an HBCU himself, while in college, he worked at Howard University Hospital, and has experienced the joy and culture provided by an HBCU.
“The HBCU sports experience is different. All of the action isn’t on the field. It’s in the stands. It’s the bands. It’s the music,” said Watson. “The energy is unique and special. Every year, we are going to grow and bring new fans to Oriole Park, and those fans will come back for more memories.”
Watson also stated it’s not just about welcoming Black fans, but getting them excited about the home team and making sure they are enjoying all Camden Yards has to offer.
“Our city is home to two of the most dynamic HBCUs in the land, so I think we are obligated to make them proud of Baltimore through the Baltimore Orioles”
Lloyd is the R&B singer who rose to fame in the mid-2000s with his songs “Southside” and “You.” The New Orleans native has collaborated with artists such as Ashanti and Lil Wayne. Lloyd teased some upcoming projects “in the works” to be announced later this fall.
Gates will open at 6 p.m with a set from Nicole Mosley, “DJ heat,” a Morgan State University alum and D.C native. DJ Heat is currently the DJ for both the Washington Mystics as well as the Washington Wizards.
After the performances, the Orioles will face off against the New York Yankees, with first pitch scheduled for 7:15 p.m.
The night will feature other pregame activities outside the ballpark in the Bullpen Picnic Area, including marching band performances, tabling from local HBCUs and appearances from school mascots.
Fans who purchase tickets for HBCU night will receive a limited edition cap, with $5 from each purchase going towards initiatives to support HBCUs and the Divine Nine organizations.
To purchase tickets to the Orioles’ HBCU and Divine Nine Night, please click here.