Homecoming Recap: The Black Mecca

The Atlanta University Center (AUC) is home to Spelman, Morehouse, Morris Brown & Clark Atlanta University. The month of October for students and alumni of these institutions is always jam-packed with events, with Spelhouse & CAU having their homecoming weeks back-to-back. Even though the schools are right across the gate from each other, the vibes are still there all month long and many end up attending both homecomings. This year, Spelhouse’s homecoming was before Clark’s, and as a CAU alum, it almost felt like the warm-up to my school’s festivities. Nevertheless, I still made memories at both events and had a blast for two weeks straight. 

Drip or Drown 

There’s no debate that HBCUs really put it on when it comes to tailgate outfits. Spelman women rocked their school colors, and a few even wore Legacy History Pride’s latest rugby dress to pay homage to the school (founded by Howard alum Tahir Murray). At CAU, many wore fits that expressed their personality and weren’t afraid to wear designer clothes from head to toe. I loved seeing the fashion design majors at Clark create their own outfits and own it unapologetically. You can definitely tell which one is the fashion school out of the three, but all schools still showed up and showed out. 

The Link Ups

You couldn’t help but notice the mini reunions happening for everyone throughout the tailgate. Whether it be old classmates, roommates, or that one crush you never forgot about, the energy was nostalgic and familiar. It was nice to also see D9 members not just secluded to their tent; many bounced around and showed love to friends and peers outside of their orgs. On the topic of Greek life, both young and seasoned members were out and about enjoying the vibe. The brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. took over the Morehouse tennis courts and seemingly had their own tailgate. From a Redbull activation with free drinks, to endless chicken on the grill, to literally hopping on U-Hauls; they made their own fun, and it felt like a party within a party. At CAU, it’s safe to say that the Alphas had the most exciting tent, with many of them having personalized paraphernalia specific to their lines. 

It’s a Vibe 

Despite both schools charging for entrance to tailgate, both homecomings brought a huge crowd, and even the locals in the Atlanta area joined in on the fun. CAU’s red field was an eye-catcher and some may even say it’s a staple on campus now. Outside of the tailgate, the promenade was active with vendors and food trucks for those that wanted a break from the action. At Spelhouse, Tailgate Hill was flooded with young and older alumni bonding off of similar organizations, like the ladies of the Mahogony-N-Motion dance team. As the day carried on and tailgate came to a close, many didn’t want the fun to end and decided to post up in front of the school signs. No matter the homecoming you went to, the vibe was simply unmatched. Is it messy to say that the AUC may even be the real GHOE?

This year’s homecoming festivities were a great time and to say I need a week-long nap would be an understatement. It’s always so good to see friends and old professors come together to celebrate their HBCU background and culture. While I always have a great time in Atlanta, I definitely want to experience other HBCU homecomings. Who knows; maybe I’ll end up at FAMU or Howard next year!