Rep. Kweisi Mfume says Historically Black Colleges and Universities remain essential institutions for educating Black students and developing the next generation of leaders.
During a conversation with the Black Information Network at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 55th Annual Legislative Conference, the Maryland Democrat discussed HBCUs, the Congressional Black Caucus and civic engagement.
Mfume pushed back against questions about whether HBCUs are still necessary, pointing to the acceptance of other institutions created to serve particular communities, including religious colleges and universities.
HBCUs continue to play an outsized role in preparing Black students for advanced degrees. According to the National Science Foundation, 31% of Black students who earned STEM PhDs between 2010 and 2020 received their bachelor’s degrees from an HBCU.
Mfume also reflected on the philosophy that has guided the Congressional Black Caucus throughout its history: “no permanent friends, no permanent enemies, just permanent interests.”
The phrase dates back to the CBC’s early years, when founding member Rep. William Clay used it to describe the caucus’ approach to advancing the interests of Black communities.
Looking ahead, Mfume stressed the importance of civic engagement and voter participation, encouraging attendees to organize in their communities and remain engaged beyond the conference.
For Mfume, protecting Black institutions and advancing Black communities requires people to actively exercise their political power rather than waiting for change to come from elsewhere.