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by Kevin Epps
I received a warm invitation via text from Diane Gray, the executive director of 100% College Prep in Bayview Hunters Point. Her message read something like: “Brotha Epps, I’m hosting HBCU students and giving them a tour of the community. Definitely come through and join us.”
The morning of the event dawned with promise, as over 60 HBCU students gathered at “The Ruth,” the historic Bayview Opera House. They were welcomed with a table full of pastries, blueberry muffins, fresh fruit, and beverages – a proper start for what promised to be an enriching day ahead.
A warm welcome, followed by a brief African libation ceremony, was led by Brother Clint, chanting the spiritual Yoruba word “Ase” to honor the ancestors. He continued by sharing a glimpse into the rich history of Bayview Hunters Point, setting the stage for a community tour under a warm summer sun, a perfect 65-degree day.
This gathering is part of a broader initiative called Black 2 San Francisco, spearheaded by the San Francisco Human Rights Commission and the Office of Economic and Workforce Development. The initiative aims to bring a satellite campus of a historically Black college or university to San Francisco by 2030, a key part of Mayor London Breed’s ambitious 30 by 30 plan.
As we strolled through the neighborhood, frequently pausing, we made stops at Mendell Plaza and the Bayview Linda Brooks-Burton Branch Library. Dr. Saidah Leatutufu-Burch from the San Francisco Human Rights Commission’s Dream Keeper Initiative explained the day’s significance: “Today, we’re showcasing what it means to thrive in Black San Francisco,” she remarked. “For many of these students, this is their first visit to California, let alone the Bay Area. We’re sharing the legacy of Bayview’s elders and the resilience of this community.”
Kino Carson, a student from Sacramento, California, who attends Fisk University in Nashville, reflected on his newfound knowledge: “I didn’t realize Bayview was once the heart of African American life in San Francisco. It’s eye-opening.” The program not only provided educational tours but also fostered partnerships between future HBCU campuses and local organizations, offering internships and academic workshops to the visiting students.
Yolanda Yan from Kennesaw State University, whose major is cyber security, noted, “I was born and raised in Atlanta, so San Francisco is just a little new for me, not too much like Georgia, and I enjoy newer things.” She expressed her appreciation for the city’s learning environment, especially its libraries. “San Francisco feels like a space where you can constantly learn,” she noted with a smile.
Victoria Studevent, Morgan State University, from Baltimore, Maryland, found unexpected familiarity in the Bayview community. “Although we’re miles apart, there’s a sense of belonging here. It’s like discovering a second home,” she mused.
Jaela Williams, from Huntsville, Alabama, representing Stillman College, said: “It’s so completely different; California is a blue state and Alabama is a red state.” She went on to share her thoughts on the community’s impact. “This isn’t just a tour; it’s a deep dive into Black history and culture. Conversations with local poets and artists have been eye-opening,” she remarked enthusiastically.
Through these interactions and experiences, the HBCU students not only discovered the unique heritage of Bayview Hunters Point but also found some common ground and inspiration in the stories and people. As they continue their educational journeys, the memories of this day will undoubtedly resonate, shaping their perspectives on community, culture and the essence of being at home away from home.
The Bay View’s executive editor and Hunters Point’s favorite son, filmmaker Kevin Epps, is best known for the game-changing “Straight Outta Hunters Point” and for “Black Rock,” “Rap Dreams,” “Fam Bam” and more. He has collaborated on projects with Google, Yahoo, Discovery Channel, Current TV and a host of other media partners. He was awarded an artist fellowship by the world renowned de Young Museum. His passion for advocacy for his community is legendary. He can be reached at kevin@sfbayview.com.
