The leading media and cultural platform dedicated to Black women has announced its involvement in HBCU football.
The first-ever ESSENCE Kickoff Classic is set to take place Labor Day Weekend 2025 at Harvard Stadium. The landmark matchup between Morehouse College and Johnson C. Smith University will mark Boston’s debut as a host city for an HBCU Classic.
“The Classic isn’t just a game—it’s a citywide celebration of culture, community, and Boston’s bold commitment to inclusivity,” said Derrick Brown, event co-founder.
Organizers chose Harvard Stadium for its rich academic history, underscoring their vision to create new traditions and promote Black excellence in one of the nation’s educational capitals, according to a news release.
🚨 SAVE THE DATE 🚨
Johnson C. Smith University takes on Morehouse College in the Essence HBCU Kickoff Classic at Harvard Stadium in Cambridge, MA — August 30, 2025!
Be there for the FIRST-EVER HBCU football game on Harvard’s campus. Let’s paint the Yard gold and blue! 💛💙 pic.twitter.com/1FroI9IjIU
— JCSU Athletics (@JCSUSports) July 10, 2025
“This is more than a football game—it’s a cultural statement,” said Michele Ghee, Chief Content Officer of ESSENCE Ventures. “By bringing HBCU football to Boston for the first time, we’re not only honoring our storied institutions, we’re creating space for Black excellence to thrive in new communities. The ESSENCE Kickoff Classic is about celebration, unity, and the enduring power and pride of who we are.”
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu welcomed the news, emphasizing the city’s ongoing commitment to representation and inclusivity. “This Classic underscores Boston’s dedication to lifting up diverse voices, traditions, and institutions,” Wu said. “We are proud to bring the spirit and heritage of HBCUs to Harvard Stadium and look forward to welcoming visitors from across the country for a weekend of pride and community.”
The Golden Bulls went 8-2 in 2024, leading the CIAA for most of the season until a two-game losing streak against rivals Fayetteville State and Livingstone College ended their championship dreams.
The Maroon Tigers went 1-9 in their first season under former NFL wide receiver Terance Mathis. Their lone victory was a 31-28 win over Kentucky State in the Chicago Football Classic on Sept. 21, 2024.
