DNC Targets HBCU Homecomings for 2025 Voter Push
The Democratic National Committee has announced a new HBCU Homecoming Campus Tour designed tods engage students, alumni, and parents during the most celebrated time of year on historically Black campuses. The effort, launched this fall, aims to rebuild trust and energy with Black voters by showing up at homecoming celebrations well before the next major election cycle.
Engaging Students Beyond Election Day
According to the DNC’s official announcement and reports from outlets like The Grio, the tour will stop at Hampton University, Norfolk State University, Virginia State University, Cheyney University, and Lincoln University. Organizers say volunteers will set up activations at parades, tailgates, block parties, and campus festivities to reach young voters in spaces that feel authentic to HBCU culture.
Merchandise, Commit to Vote Cards, and Grassroots Outreach
At each stop, the DNC plans to distribute “Commit to Vote” cards, voter education materials, and “We Stand With HBCUs” merchandise, along with photo booths and phone-charging stations for attendees. Surrogates and volunteers will also canvas on-site to encourage early registration and voter turnout. DNC leaders said they wanted to demonstrate that the party is committed to consistent engagement rather than only appearing during presidential election years.
Addressing Declines in Black Voter Turnout
Ken Martin, chair of the DNC’s Voter Participation Center, emphasized that the initiative responds directly to turnout declines seen in 2024, particularly among younger Black men. “For too long, political parties have shown up at the last minute and expected loyalty,” he said during an interview. “We’re showing up early and often, especially where culture drives community.” The campaign coincides with the start of early voting in several states, including Virginia on October 25, allowing the tour to tie celebrations directly to voter mobilization efforts.
A Strategic Focus on HBCU Communities
Homecoming season is a natural choice for outreach because of the massive draw of alumni, students, families, and local supporters. By hosting activations at some of the oldest and most influential HBCUs—including Hampton, the first Black college in the South, and Cheyney University, the nation’s oldest historically Black college—the DNC hopes to engage attendees on familiar ground where cultural pride meets civic action.
Building Trust Amid National Conversations
The tour also follows ongoing discussions about threats against HBCUs and national debates over policies affecting students of color. DNC officials say the program is meant to build consistent relationships with voters while highlighting investment in historically Black colleges and their surrounding communities.
While full details on funding and additional tour dates have not been disclosed, the DNC described the effort as a “five-figure investment” to strengthen ties with Black voters across key states. The initiative has been met with interest from alumni groups and student leaders who see the value in connecting homecoming celebrations with civic engagement.
HBCU Buzz will continue to follow the tour’s progress as it makes its way through campuses this season, spotlighting how these efforts resonate with HBCU communities nationwide.