N.C. A&T’S Center of Excellence for Social Justice Set to Host Inaugural HBCU Democracy Day

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Oct. 10, 2024) – North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University’s Center of Excellence for Social Justice (CESJ) will host its inaugural HBCU Democracy Day on Wednesday, Oct. 16, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Alumni-Foundation Event Center, 200 N. Benbow Road, Greensboro.  

This nonpartisan event, which is being held during N.C. A&T’s 98th Greatest Homecoming on Earth, will bring together scholars, journalists and civil rights activists for a day of insightful discussions on the pivotal role historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have played in shaping American democracy. 

“HBCU Democracy Day is the perfect occasion for us to come together and celebrate the rich culture of HBCUs and their profound influence on civic life across our nation,” said Jelani Favors, Ph.D., CESJ director. 

The event takes place during Homecoming week, offering an excellent opportunity for alumni and community members to engage in meaningful civic activities and educational experiences. Renowned speakers and scholars will discuss how HBCUs have promoted social change and civic involvement and their impact on society.  

The lineup includes: 

• Martha Jones, Ph.D., Society of Black Alumni Presidential Professor, professor of history and director of graduate studies at Johns Hopkins University 

• Hasan Kwame Jeffries, Ph.D., associate professor of history at The Ohio State University 

• Melanye Price, Ph.D., endowed professor of political science and director of the Ruth J. Simmons Center for Race and Justice at Prairie View A&M University 

• David Dennis Sr., author and civil rights movement veteran 

• David Dennis Jr., author and ESPN columnist 

• Khalilah Brown-Dean, Ph.D., Rob Rosenthal Distinguished Professor of Civic Engagement and executive director of the Albritton Center for the Study of Public Life at Wesleyan University 

• Eddie Cole, Ph.D., professor of education and history at the University of California, Los Angeles 

“This is a call for our community to get involved in social responsibility and encourages us to build a more engaged and informed society,” said Favors. 

To attend HBCU Democracy Day, click here to complete the required registration or email Favors at jmfavors@ncat.edu.