By Stephen J. Gaither
Over 50 former football legends, representing 25 historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) proudly endorse fellow HBCU alumna Vice-President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz for election in November and urged citizens to mobilize and vote for candidates of their choice in November’s Presidential Election.
In a May 26, 2024 White House statement, Vice-President Kamala Harris spoke of the impact of her HBCU experience (at Howard University) and the leadership of talented and motivated individuals from all walks of life in communities throughout America. Given her integrity, values, and demonstrated commitment to justice and equality of opportunity, we are confident that as President she will serve the best interests of all Americans.
“As a proud graduate of Howard University, I know firsthand that our HBCUs are centers of academic excellence. For generations, these anchors of our communities have played a pivotal role in building and contributing to America’s leadership at home and abroad. Today, graduates from our Nation’s more than 100 HBCUs are in every room where important decisions are made – leading in our schools, hospitals, courtrooms, boardrooms, and at the highest levels of government. And as we look forward, we know that our HBCUs will continue to prepare young leaders to build a better, more just future for our country and the world.”
While endorsing the Harris-Walz ticket, the legends have also emphasized that they do not expect that anyone should simply do so on blind faith. “We encourage all citizens to study the candidates and issues and make their own judgments. We have done so, and are inspired and proud of the leadership that President Harris and Vice-President Walz will provide. But throughout our careers, we have competed on the merits, and we respect the rights of others to compete now and reach their own conclusions about candidates.”