Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) is hosting its Annual Day of Giving in commemoration of the 1887 Strikes.
In 1887 in Thibodaux, Louisiana Black sugar cane workers went on strike to protest the harsh working conditions, long hours and unfair wages. For three weeks 10,000 workers went on strike, turning into what is now known as the Thibodaux Massacre. The all-white state militia went to the protestors’ homes, killing an estimated 60 people.
FAMU’s Annual Day of Giving, “1887 Strikes,” fundraising event kicked off Thursday morning. Friends, alumni, faculty and staff are being asked to support a broad range of initiatives and scholarships to benefit students.
President Larry Robinson, Ph.D., said the fundraising campaign is crucial considering the heavy toll exacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
“The past year has reminded us about the importance of the health, safety and economic well-being of our students and their families. When they struggle, we feel their pain,” Robinson said. “The Annual Day of Giving allows everyone to make their commitment to our students felt. As I always say, ‘don’t just give until it hurts, give until you’re numb.’ This is one investment in students you will never regret.”
This year’s Annual Day of Giving will last 1887 minutes, from 9 a.m. Thursday to 4:27 p.m. Friday. The kickoff ceremony will be available to stream at FAMUTube1887 and on Facebook.
The highlights of this 31-plus-hour event include a drive-thru parade when President Robinson and the Senior Leadership Team will be stationed on the steps of Lee Hall as motorists drive through the “Set” to drop off their checks. The live Instagram finale will feature a number of well-known alumni.
Last year’s campaign, along with the help of the FAMU University Advancement team, raised $213,256.72 from 1,415 donors. This year’s goal is to receive gifts from at least 1,500 donors.
Shawnta Friday-Stroud, Ph.D., vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the FAMU Foundation, hopes donors continue to be generous.
“Once again, we are asking our supporters and alumni to donate as an investment in our students,” Friday-Stroud said. “The past year has been difficult, but one reason for optimism has been the generosity of our alumni and friends. Their giving has made all the difference, but we can’t get tired. There’s much more work to be done. The needs are still great, and we still need you.”
