Howard University students protested during the celebration of the school's 150th anniversary. Students expressed their concerns about the school president's relationship with the Trump administration.
On Monday, Howard University president Wayne Frederick met with President Trump along with other presidents of historically black colleges across the nation. The Washington Post reported that Vice President Mike Pence also met with the HBCU leaders and praised them on how they "transformed lives through education."
Pence admitted that he and Trump admire the contributions that HBCUs have provided to American students. He also said that the Trump administration will continue its commitment in making sure that historically black colleges and universities are given the credit and attention that they deserve.
The Associated Press, via WBRC Fox 6 News added that, on Tuesday, President Trump has signed an executive order which focused on his commitment to the welfare of HBCUs. He also said that the schools will get top priority at the White House.
HBCU leaders are hoping that Congress will reinforce President Trump's actions in strengthening the schools with increased funding. They are hoping for an allocation of $25 billion for infrastructure, college readiness and financial aid, among others.
Meanwhile, students at Howard University are protesting against President Frederick's meeting with Trump and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, according to NBC Washington. The school's celebration of its 150th anniversary was filled with tension as students voiced out their concerns against the school president.
Some feel blindsided about what Frederick had done and are urging him to be more transparent to students. There are still students, though, who disagreed with the protests.
Moreover, students want the Howard University administration to reject any additional federal funding that would be the result of Trump's executive order, WAMU noted. Some students who believe that the Trump administration stands for fascism and call on the university to stand for something.
