Editor’s note: The following article is an op-ed, and the views expressed are the author’s own. Read more opinions on theGrio.
We are in the midst of historically Black college and university homecoming season in African America. This weekend, for instance, at least seven HBCUs will welcome alumni, friends family and curious onlookers to their campuses to revel in the tried-and-true tradition of tailgating, communing, remembering, celebrating and wondering what could have been, all in super-Black spaces. Dozens more schools have homecoming on the horizon; October is basically homecoming season for the vast majority of us alumni and attendees of HBCUs across the country. What a wonderful time in Black America.
As I near my 20th time attending the homecoming festivities of Morehouse College and Spelman College (SpelHouse is how we’re usually referred) — I graduated in 2001 and only missed four homecomings, including the COVID years — I often reflect upon things I’ve learned during the decades I’ve ventured to Atlanta each fall to celebrate with the homies. I’d like to share some of those lessons and insights with you, especially if you’re 20-plus years away from graduation (or looking to get there in your own life, eventually). Look, sharing is care and I care. Let’s go.
1. Comfort has definitely overtaken flyness in terms of my tailgate drip. Fly comfort is now the name of the game.
I will never wear Chuck Taylors again in my life when I may be on my feet for upwards of 10 hours. When I hit campus for tailgating, I NEVER sit down. I spend so much time going from tent to tent and section to section that, at some point, my feet will start to burn. Now, I make sure I have on comfortable shoes for all the walking. You should, too. Just a suggestion, really. Also, that fly outfit no matter the weather? Such a terrible idea. I get it; I’ve done it myself….
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