Uncertainty looms over the excitement of Howard’s annual Homecoming celebration due to recent threats made to HBCUs and increased federal presence in Washington D.C. The large crowd is expected to prompt increased coordination between the police department and campus safety officials.
One of Howard’s most iconic and beloved traditions is returning for its 101st Homecoming celebration on Oct. 19 through Oct. 26, and with each Homecoming season, tens of thousands of people attend each year according to DC News Now.
“While there are currently no credible threats for this event, MPD will continue to work with Howard University to ensure everyone’s safety,” Metropolitan Police Department’s media team said.
In early August, Trump declared an Executive order, stating, “crime is out of control in the District of Columbia.” As an extension of this order Trump invoked Section 740 of the Home Rule Act, deploying the National Guard and ordered the federal government take over the Metropolitan Police Department for thirty days starting on Aug. 11.
While these orders have long expired, there still is a heavy police and National Guard presence which may be prompted by Trump’s extension of the National Guard’s deployment through December according to AP News.
“I think it’s very important for students to be very diligent and aware of their surroundings. I also believe it is important for students to know why there is an increased federal presence on campus and around the area,” said Anyae Fields, a sophomore political science major Columbus, Ohio.
Amidst the safety concerns, Howard faculty have released statements ensuring that the safety of homecoming attendees is a main priority.
“As you are no doubt aware, law enforcement in the District of Columbia has been intensified. Please recognize that, in addition to the Metropolitan Police Department, numerous federal law enforcement agencies have investigative and arrest authority in the city,” said The Office of University Communications (OUC).
A statement released by OUC gave tips promoting a safe environment for Homecoming attendees, which included prioritizing hydration, walking in groups and mindfulness of one’s surroundings.
“The Howard University Department of Public Safety (DPS) has implemented enhanced safety measures to ensure that students, alumni, faculty, staff and guests can enjoy this special time with confidence,” OUC said in a recent email.
In another email on Oct. 16 from the Division of Student Affairs gave advice for students who encounter “individuals who may agitate or attempt to distract you from your purpose on or near our campus.” This comes after Blexit, a conservative organization, claimed it intends to visit Howard on Friday Oct. 24 on a tour of Historically Black colleges and Universities.
“While it may be natural to have curiosity about these events, we strongly encourage you not to engage with individuals or groups whose actions may disrupt the celebratory atmosphere or the environment of mutual respect that we all work so diligently to maintain,” OUC wrote.
With Homecoming being such a cherished tradition in the Howard community, the safety concerns that have occurred over the past month make for a time of hyperawareness throughout the community.
Copy edited by Damenica Ellis
