By Victoria Mejicanos
AFRO Staff Writer
vmejicanos@afro.com

Howard University will be celebrating its 101st homecoming this year, under the theme “One of One” from Oct. 19-26, to celebrate its community. 

The university’s tradition started in 1924, making it one of the earliest HBCUs to establish a homecoming, a point of pride for the university. 

Princess Gamble, the vice president and interim chief development officer of development and alumni relations for Howard University, touched on homecoming and its significance, saying many attend to “revel in the joy of what it means to be attending or adjacent to HBCUs.” 

“Howard is indeed the [most] unique, best, well-known homecoming on the East Coast,” said Gamble. “But historically speaking, it has been a time of great joy and gathering for not only the Howard community, but the ripple effect that the Howard community has.” 

The “Showtime” Marching Band will perform at the community parade Oct 25. (Photo Courtesy The Dig at Howard University)

Events 

The festivities will include several iconic featured events, starting with a free event open to the community.  “A Call to Chapel” on Oct. 19 will feature Michael Eric Dyson, described as  “one of the nation’s most renowned professors, gifted writers, inspiring preachers, knowledgeable lecturers and prominent media personalities,” according to the event’s page. The Royal Court Coronation will also take place that evening at 7 p.m. 

Oct. 22, the university will host the annual Lavender Reception, which celebrates Howard’s LGBTQIA+ community and supports scholarships for student advocates.

On Oct. 23, festivities will include the Red White and Bison Gala to support active military members of the Howard community as well as veterans. Ticket prices vary but all are welcome to attend regardless of military affiliation.  “Approximately 60% of the proceeds will go toward establishing a military-connected scholarship fund, addressing critical resource and infrastructure shortfalls for the military-connected community and supporting student enrichment and professional development programs,” according to the event page. 

Additionally, there will also be a student fashion show, with ticket prices to be determined. 

Oct. 24 marks the opening of the iconic Yardfest tradition. It is free and open to all. Yardfest includes live performances and a “surprise chart-topping guest.” Previous Yardfest performers have included Grammy winners Jay-Z, Kanye West, Faith Evans and CeeLo Green,  along with Grammy-nominated artist Notorious B.I.G., according to the university.  There is also the Greek Step Show with ticket prices to be determined, and the Divine 9 Brunch with tickets starting at $55 a person. 

Howard is working with their community to develop “a collaborative campus security campaign to be announced in the coming weeks.” A small list of prohibited items are pictured and a full list can be found online. (Photo Credit: Business Wire, Via AP.)

The Howard University Bison and the Morgan State University Bears will face off in the annual homecoming game at Greene Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 25. 

Prior to the game, the free community parade will take place, featuring the “Showtime” Marching Band as well as floats and cheerleaders. To participate in the parade, attendees will need to fill out a form. 

Sunday closes out the week with another “A Call to Chapel” event featuring the Rev. Frederick D. Haynes III Ph.D. 

Safety 

Given recent threats to HBCUs, in a statement to the AFRO, the Office of University Communications said they are working to develop “a collaborative campus security campaign to be announced in the coming weeks.” 

“Additional information on safety protocols and other resources will be shared prior to homecoming week,” officials said. 

For all events, there is a clear bag policy, and no bags will be allowed into specific venues besides baby bags and medical bags. There is also a list of prohibited items. 

Anthony Anderson, left, and Cedric the Entertainer will be present at homecoming festivities, selling their AC Barbecue sauces and rubs. (Courtesy Image)

Notable guests and community connection 

Homecoming is not just about events, but community. Howard collaborates with local vendors and businesses for everything from equipment to encouraging crowds to patronize Georgia Avenue, which is full of local establishments. 

“We have healthy and robust relationships, not only with homecoming vendors, but with the Georgia Avenue corridor,” Gamble said. “It ends up being a festival-like feeling up and down Georgia Avenue because the foot traffic is so great.”

Gamble also shared there will be notable guests among the vendors. Comedians Cedric the Entertainer and Anthony Anderson will be selling their signature line of sauces and barbecue seasonings created via their shared business, AC Barbecue, on the Yard.

“We’re looking forward to a great time, a safe time and a time to revel in all the traditions and legacies that are Howard,” said Gamble.