In 1909, Howard student J.A. Mitchell saw the school as a homebase for Black scholarship and thought, writing, “Howard indeed bids well to become the Mecca, toward which the eyes of our youth will instinctively turn.” Some historians suggest “The Mecca” comparison then re-emerged in the wake of the Civil Rights Movement, particularly after Malcolm X took his religious pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia in 1964. The belief that Howard is a guiding pillar for Black education rings true to this day for the many leaders, innovators, and artists Howard University has educated through the years– all of whom take pride in their alma mater.

Products are mocked up on a size S. Graphics may appear smaller on larger sizes. (Model in our side-by-side graphic is 6'3" and wears a size M.)