D.C. Supported by the Freedman's Bureau and named after General Oliver Howard, Howard University was founded in 1867. As early as 1879, Congress provided annual appropriations and by 1928, these appropriations became statutory obligations by Congress. My journey down the 'long walk' starts the fourth generation of my mother's family to attend Howard University. My 'deep roots' begin with my grandmother's uncles who complete degrees in medicine and theology. Given the period of their compliments, my great uncles are only allowed to practice their disciplines with 'colored people', despite their advanced training.
Education can be the foundation for middle class status and at the same time a slap in the face.
My childhood and adulthood are clustered with memories of Howard University's homecomings, graduations in front of Douglass Hall, and opportunities to meet Adam Clayton Powell, Lyndon Baines Johnson, Nelson Mandela, Doug Wilder and a host of Black and White scholars who unconsciously shape my persona. At the beginning of my freshman year, I am perhaps the only freshman who can give directions and direct you to the location of the bathrooms in each building. Historically Black colleges and universities afford people of color the opportunity to embrace middle class status and thus, life sustaining employment and well-being. Scholars and mentors like Mary Rose Allen embraced Black women at Howard University in the late 1940s and early 1960s and they may never hear the echoes of their legacy. When the society saw Black women as nannies and servants, Mary Rose lead Black women across Howard's doorstep and strengthened their fortitude.