Historically Black
An Exhibit Honoring Alabama's HBCUs
OCTOBER 23-DECEMBER 12, 2026
Historically Black
Alabama’s HBCU story is unlike any other.
Home to more HBCUs than any other state, Alabama holds a remarkable legacy of institutions that have educated leaders, created opportunity, shaped culture, and strengthened communities.
Historically Black honors that legacy. Co-curated with participating institutions, the exhibition will feature artifacts, photographs, documents, and memorabilia representing each of Alabama’s 14 HBCUs—creating a rare, collective portrait of their impact across the state and the nation.
KEEPERS OF THE LEGACY
HBCUs and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute share a commitment to preserving history, teaching its truth, and carrying its lessons forward.
Historically Black celebrates that shared work and a legacy worthy of our collective pride.
Explore the Opening
Reception Photo Gallery
Honoring a shared legacy
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Names Alabama’s 14 HBCUs Recipients of 2026 Fred L. Shuttlesworth Human Rights Award
First organizational honorees to be recognized at BCRI’s 34th Anniversary Celebration
A lasting tribute
Permanent Installation Honoring Alabama’s 14 HBCUs
In addition to the Historically Black exhibit, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute unveiled a permanent installation dedicated to Alabama’s HBCUs. Made possible by support from Regions and Coca Cola Bottling Company UNITED, the installation includes 14 plaques, one for each school. The plaques recognize the location and founding of each school, ensuring that visitors of the institute from far and wide will know that Alabama’s HBCU legacy is one unlike any other.
8 HBCUs | 6 HBCCs | #1 in the Nation
Alabama A&M University ᐧ Alabama State University ᐧ Bishop State Community College ᐧ Drake State Technical College ᐧ Gadsden State Community College ᐧ Lawson State Community College ᐧ Miles College ᐧ Oakwood University ᐧ Selma University ᐧ Shelton State Community College ᐧ Stillman College ᐧ Talladega College ᐧ Trenholm State Community College ᐧ Tuskegee University
Experience Historically Black
Experience the history, culture, traditions, and stories of Alabama’s 14 HBCUs all in one place. Plan your visit to see Historically Black between October 23rd and December 12th.
Thank you to our generous sponsors:
