The Las Vegas Raiders are fostering a new tradition that celebrates diversity by hosting the Las Vegas HBCU Classic, a college football matchup between Jackson State and Grambling State, at Allegiant Stadium. This event not only pays homage to the franchise’s rich history, having won three Super Bowls since its inception in 1976, but it also aims to highlight the contributions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to football.
Aligning itself with this game reflects the vision of the late owner Al Davis, who was known for his commitment to diversity within the NFL. Over 80 players from HBCUs have donned the Raiders’ uniform, including legends like Willie Brown, Art Shell, and Jerry Rice. The organization is looking to establish an ongoing tradition of hosting HBCU games on the West Coast, enriching the weekend festivities with cultural elements that showcase HBCU pride and heritage through performances by the schools’ bands and events for alumni.
Piper Overstreet-White, the Raiders’ senior vice president of government and community relations, shared that the initiative to incorporate the HBCU classic became a priority once Raiders’ President Sandra Douglass Morgan presented the idea to owner Mark Davis, who quickly endorsed the plan. The partnership with Grambling and Jackson State emanates from a longstanding relationship with the legendary Grambling coach Eddie Robinson and culminates in an effort to develop minority leaders in football through initiatives like the Al Davis-Eddie Robinson Leadership Academy.
Both Grambling and Jackson State are storied programs in the Southwestern Athletic Conference, boasting impressive championship histories, with Grambling winning 25 SWAC titles and Jackson State claiming 19. The partnership aims not only to showcase football talent but also to promote academic opportunities at these institutions, creating a vibrant atmosphere that emulates a true HBCU game day.
The Las Vegas HBCU Classic will culminate in a pep rally on Fremont Street, where the famed marching bands from both schools will perform, enhancing the visibility of HBCU culture. Jackson State athletic director Ashley Robinson emphasized that this experience allows wider audiences to understand and appreciate HBCUs, hoping it becomes an annual event that builds momentum each year.
The Raiders’ involvement brings a unique spotlight to the weekend, fostering collaboration between both teams, the SWAC, and the city of Las Vegas, aiming for future events that celebrate not just football but community and culture as well. This collaboration could potentially reinvigorate interest in HBCU games on the West Coast, where similar events have faced challenges in the past.
As planning for the HBCU classic has been underway for about a year, it marks a significant milestone in Pacific Coast history, with hopes that the Raiders will continue their support and partnership in making this a recurrent celebration. With such initiatives, the narrative of diversity, culture, and community is strongly reinforced, exemplifying the Raiders’ commitment to honoring their legacy and promoting the future of HBCUs.