NewsOne.com is reporting that there are plans to launch a 24-hour network dedicated to HBCUs. The network is set to be focused on "edutainment" and lifestyle for Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The company behind the platform, C3 Media LLC says that the network is set to fill a niche within the cable industry that has barely been reached in the past.
Much of the programming will also feature various sports teams sponsored by black colleges all across America. "The idea and vision behind the creation of the HBCU Network is to preserve and celebrate the African American colleges and universities, while also providing opportunities for their growth and further prosperity," CEO Curtis Symonds told NewsOne. "At the same time, we are passionate and excited about building a strong media brand and network from the ground up."
C3 Media is run by Curtis Symonds, Clint Evans and Candace Walker. They are negotiating with larger networks such as ESPN for the rights to black college football games. They also have a partnership with TV One. Their network will target African Americans aged 15 - 24 years old, as well as faculty and alumni of HBCUs.
When I read about this network, I was pleasantly surprised. The network's approach is impressive, as it reminds me of the importance of producing socially-conscious business models, which I discuss in my book, "Black American Money." Ryan Mack, a respected financial expert out of New York City, also speaks of such business models. The company has decided that Historically Black Colleges should share in their profits, which will hopefully open the door for additional funding for these universities. Given that many predominantly white universities earn billions by televising black athletes, it is my greatest hope that HBCUs will find some way to tap into this lucrative market as well.
The point to be made here is that when money is being made in the African American community, there must be an understanding of the importance of creating responsible business models, and not simply opening the door for more black economic pimps and ravenous slum lords. When you are selling things to black folks, the bottom line cannot be the bottom line (yes, the pun was intended). What I mean by this statement is that when we create businesses in our community, making money cannot be the only thing on our minds. This is especially true in an industry as important as media, where you are shaping minds that have been battered by the abuses of slavery and oppression for the last 400 years. If you teach a group of psychologically dysfunctional people how to become even more dysfunctional, you are reminding the world of just how much you hate them.
So, as this network launches and moves forward, I am hopeful that the producers and directors will stay focused on their goal of uplifting the community as the stakes get higher and higher. At the same time, those of us in the community should support this network in every way we can. I strongly believe that a well-supported network featuring sports and activities of Historically Black Colleges and Universities can not only allow us to make money from black athletic ability, it can also have as strong of an impact on HBCU attendance as the TV show, "A Different World." I look forward to seeing how this one works out.
Dr. Boyce Watkins is the founder of the Your Black World Coalition and a Scholarship in Action Resident of the Institute for Black Public Policy. To have Dr. Boyce commentary delivered to your email, please click here.