With Donald Trump back in the White House, HBCUs face a new wave of political pressure that directly threatens academic freedom and the integrity of Black history in schools. The need for alumni support has never been more urgent.
In just his first months back in office, Trump has reignited his administration’s hardline stance on what’s taught in American classrooms—particularly when it comes to the legacy of slavery, race, and systemic inequality.
Two of the nation’s most prominent institutions, Columbia University and Harvard University, have already felt the impact. The Trump administration cut federal funding to Columbia after accusing the university of promoting “divisive ideologies.” Harvard also came under fire, facing federal investigations for its diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, which the administration labeled as discriminatory.
These moves aren’t isolated. They’re warnings. And HBCUs, historically underfunded and often targeted for their unapologetic embrace of Black excellence—may be next.
Despite their outsized impact, HBCUs still receive fewer contributions from alumni and other donors than their PWI counterparts.
This giving gap leaves HBCUs more vulnerable in times of political uncertainty, especially when federal funds are leveraged to push the whitening of American history.
To push back against federal pressure and help HBCUs build independence, current students, alumni, and other friends of the colleges are being called to join the Founding Year Challenge—a simple yet powerful monthly donation campaign based on the year their school was established.
For example, North Carolina Central University (NCCU) was founded in 1910, so supporters would commit to giving $19.10 each month. It’s a manageable way to contribute consistently while honoring your school’s legacy.
Howard University, founded in 1867 — Give $18.67 a month
Spelman College, founded in 1881 — Give $18.81 a month
Florida A&M University, founded in 1887 — Give $18.87 a month
Why Now Is the Time
Under Trump’s leadership, schools that teach America’s full story, including its painful but critical truths, are facing increased scrutiny. Efforts to censor classroom content, eliminate DEI programs, and tie funding to political compliance signal a direct attack on education as we know it.
If these measures continue, HBCUs risk not only financial losses but the silencing of the very history they were built to preserve and elevate.
This Is About More Than Money
Giving back isn’t just about paying it forward; it’s about making sure your institution survives and thrives, no matter who’s in office. It’s about protecting spaces that have empowered Black students for over a century. And most importantly, it’s about taking ownership of the legacy our ancestors built.
By giving monthly, you’re investing in the future, preserving history, and showing that your pride runs deeper than a hashtag or homecoming.
Let’s rise together. Let’s give together. And let’s protect what’s ours.
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