A landmark sporting event will take place at Harvard Stadium on Aug. 30. Morehouse College and Johnson C. Smith University will meet in a football game of historic measure. The Essence HBCU Classic, sponsored by the renowned Black magazine and cosponsored by Cash App and Visa, will be the highlight of a weekend, Aug.28-31, celebrating the legacy of historically Black colleges and universities, Black college football, and the impact both have on the city of Boston.Alumni from Morehouse and Johnson C. Smith, as well as many other historically Black colleges and universities, are expected to descend on Boston in large numbers to participate in the weekend, which is full of special events and activities.“This Classic underscores Boston’s continued commitment to showcasing diverse voices, traditions, and institutions,” said Boston Mayor Michelle Wu. “We are proud to bring the spirit of HBCUs to the region and look forward to welcoming visitors from across the country for a weekend of celebration, pride and community.”The historic weekend includes a halftime tribute to the New Edition singing group, Boston’s musical legends, and will mark the 25th Anniversary of Gospel Fest, a citywide tradition.
