HBCU students tour San Francisco’s Black community

HBCU students visiting Linda Brooks Burton Branch Library in Bayview Hunters Point are, from left, Senja Schwoeffermann, Howard University, Jaela Williams, Stillman College, Victoria Studevent, Morgan State University, and Yolanda Yan, Kennesaw State University. – Photo: Kevin Epps by Kevin Epps I received a warm invitation via text from Diane Gray, the executive director of 100% College Prep in Bayview Hunters Point. Her message read something like: “Brotha Epps, I’m hosting HBCU students and giving them a tour of the community. Definitely come through and join us.” The morning of the event dawned with promise, as over 60 HBCU students gathered at “The Ruth,” the historic Bayview Opera House. They were welcomed with a table full of pastries, blueberry muffins, fresh fruit, and beverages – a proper start for what promised to be an enriching day ahead. A warm welcome, followed by a brief African libation ceremony, was led by Brother Clint, chanting the spiritual Yoruba word “Ase” to honor the ancestors. He continued by sharing a glimpse into the rich history of Bayview Hunters Point, setting the stage for a community tour under a warm summer sun, a perfect 65-degree day. This gathering is part of a broader initiative...