Howard U. Cancels 2020 Homecoming Due to Pandemic

WI Web StaffJuly 3, 2020

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The Howard University marching band makes its way down Georgia Avenue in northwest D.C. during the university’s homecoming parade on Oct. 21. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer) — **FILE** The Howard University marching band makes its way down Georgia Avenue in northwest D.C. during the university’s homecoming parade on Oct. 21, 2017. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

Howard University has canceled plans for the school’s homecoming activities in the fall amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Howard President Wayne A.I. Frederick said Thursday said safety comes first this year.

“You can’t put African Americans at risk, bringing them into those environments because all of those … who attend those events are younger,” Frederick told WJLA-TV’s Anna-Lysa Gayle. “We have [alumni] who are in the risk category and those younger people have to go back home to places where their grandparents are going to be.”

Howard’s weeklong homecoming festivities, which attract thousands annually, include activities such as the Yardfest music festival, a parade, the football game and alumni parties held throughout the District.