I’m Buildin’ Me a Home: Hearing Ritual and Performance at Historically Black Colleges and Universities

This essay, by Fredara Hadley, explores the significance of ritual and performance in the cultural and academic traditions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Using the Negro spiritual "I'm Buildin’ Me a Home"—notably arranged by Uzee Brown and popularized by the Morehouse College Glee Club—as a central theme, Hadley examines how musical traditions reinforce communal identity, historical consciousness, and resilience within Black educational spaces. Through an analysis of choral performances, institutional ceremonies, and other cultural expressions, the essay highlights the ways in which music and performance serve as vital forms of collective memory and resistance against historical marginalization. Additionally, it delves into the broader implications of these traditions, illustrating how they foster a sense of belonging and continuity among students, alumni, and the wider community. Hadley situates HBCU performances within a broader framework of African American cultural expression, emphasizing their role in sustaining historical narratives and shaping contemporary experiences. Ultimately, this work underscores the enduring power of ritual and performance as foundational elements of HBCU life, reinforcing their importance in the preservation and evolution of Black cultural heritage.