The Institute

UNITE HBCU Civil Discourse & Freedom Institute.

Advancing civil discourse, democratic engagement, and freedom of expression across Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

What it is

Where HBCU voices shape the national conversation.

The UNITE HBCU Civil Discourse & Freedom Institute equips students, scholars, and leaders with the skills, platforms, and opportunities to engage in informed, respectful, and impactful dialogue that strengthens our democracy.
Focus areas

Five areas. One movement.

01

Civil Discourse Education

Curriculum and programming that teaches the skills of informed, respectful debate.

02

Student Civic Leadership

Building the next generation of HBCU students prepared to lead in their communities.

03

Faculty & Thought Leadership

Supporting HBCU faculty and thought leaders to shape the broader national conversation.

04

National Convenings

Bringing students, scholars, and leaders together to dialogue, debate, and connect.

05

HBCU Infrastructure

Strengthening the institutional capacity of HBCUs to sustain civil discourse programming.

Who it’s for

Three audiences. One platform.

S

Students

HBCU undergraduates and graduate students ready to build the skills, platforms, and networks of civic leadership.

F

Scholars & Faculty

HBCU faculty whose research and teaching shape the next generation of civic discourse leaders.

L

Leaders

Administrators, community leaders, and alumni who sustain and expand the Institute’s reach.

Get involved

Ready to join the work?

Apply to a program, donate to a scholarship, or partner with us on an HBCU initiative.

Apply now → Donate