Exploring the Impact of HBCUs: A Documentary Shines a Light on Their Legacy and Future

A new documentary titled Opportunity, Access & Uplift: The Evolving Legacy of HBCUs is making waves as it airs nationwide on over 300 PBS member stations, with insights from journalist Brandis Griffith Friedman at the helm. Supported by the Lumina Foundation, this documentary delves into the vital role Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) play in shaping the educational landscape and the lives of countless students.

The documentary takes viewers on a journey through two significant HBCU campuses—Delaware State University in Dover and Dillard University in New Orleans—offering an intimate view of the student experience. Current students share their diverse stories, shedding light on their reasons for choosing these institutions and what their academic and campus lives are like. The film captures the lived experiences of these students amid the historical significance and ongoing challenges faced by HBCUs, such as funding issues and changing enrollment patterns.

HBCUs have long been champions of opportunity, serving as a springboard for generations of Black college graduates. They have been instrumental in promoting educational equity and cultivating leaders who significantly influence various fields including politics, economics, and public service. Opportunity, Access & Uplift honors this legacy while also looking towards the future, highlighting how these institutions evolve to meet the needs of today’s students.

As a proud alumnus of Dillard University, Friedman expresses her deep connection to this project, stating, "HBCUs shaped who I am today, and it was deeply meaningful to share the stories of current students whose experiences reflect both the history and the evolving future of these vital institutions." This sentiment encapsulates the heartfelt intentions behind the documentary, aiming to inspire and inform viewers about the ongoing significance of HBCUs in American society.

Furthermore, insights from prominent figures such as Michael Lomax, CEO of UNCF, and Felecia Commodore, an associate professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, provide context for understanding the history and current challenges faced by HBCUs. They underline the essential role HBCUs have played in elevating the Black middle class and advancing the societal landscape.

Jasmine Haywood, Lumina's Strategy Director, emphasizes the importance of HBCUs in fostering opportunities, stating, "Lumina is proud to support this documentary, which honors their enduring legacy while shining a light on the students and communities who will carry it forward." This documentary not only celebrates the past; it also envisions a future where HBCUs continue to thrive and fulfill their mission of empowerment and education.

Produced by Brandis Griffith Friedman in collaboration with DPD Media’s David Duncan and Mario Tharpe, Opportunity, Access & Uplift stands as a tribute to the ongoing journey of HBCUs and their pivotal place in American education. As the reach of the documentary spreads, it stands to educate a wider audience on the profound impact these institutions have had and will continue to have in shaping future leaders.

Overall, this documentary serves as a reminder of the enduring strength of HBCUs and their crucial role in promoting access and inclusion in higher education, making it an essential viewing for anyone interested in the evolution of America's education system.