Post submitted by former Editorial Producer, Print and Digital Media Rokia Hassanein

For Rishard Butts, providing a space for alumni of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) who identify as LGBTQ to gather online and beyond is key to promoting inclusivity within intersecting communities.

That’s why HRC Foundation and HBCU Buzz have created the first-ever HBCU LGBTQ Alumni Network, which aims to cultivate interest in and support for the HRCF’s HBCU Program, encourage LGBTQ inclusion at HBCUs and provide a space for alumni to connect, activate and collaborate on common and relevant issues.

“It’s important for us to solidify our community of individuals who have shared experiences graduating from historically Black colleges and universities and identifying as LGBTQ,” said Butts, the program coordinator of HRC Foundation’s HBCU program.

Said Leslie Hall, director of HRC Foundation’s HBCU program: “The network will really provide a force for us to continue our work of building inclusive, supportive and safe campuses for the LGBTQ community.”

This Black History Month we celebrate HRC Foundation's HBCU Program, which empowers LGBTQ young people who are HBCU alumni.

Through a combination of an annual leadership summit and year-round support, HRC trains students to lead effectively at the intersections of race, religion, gender identity, class and sexual orientation on their campuses and in their communities.

Learn more about the network and how you can join at hrc.org/HBCU.