Nov. 19, 2016, Orlando. Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, 143d ESC, Wikipedia
MORE THAN A GAME:
The Florida Classic and the
by Dr. Nashid Madyun
ENDURING POWER
of Florida’ s HBCUs
For a century, the rivalry between Florida A & M University and Bethune-Cookman University has reflected something larger than football: the evolution of Black education, culture, opportunity and community in Florida.
When Florida A & M University and Bethune- Cookman University meet on the football field, the scoreboard tells only a fraction of the story. The Florida Classic is a celebration of two institutions that have helped shape Black Florida— and, in important ways, modern Florida itself.
FAMU and Bethune-Cookman first met on the gridiron in 1925. The modern Florida Classic dates to 1978 and has grown into one of the nation ' s signature HBCU sporting and cultural events. Yet its significance is best understood against a much broader history.
For generations, historically Black colleges and universities provided educational opportunities when segregation restricted where African Americans could learn, work and advance. Institutions such as FAMU and Bethune-Cookman educated teachers, nurses, scientists, entrepreneurs, public officials and community leaders
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