Historically Black University Facing Student Problems

350 students and union workers were mad at Howard University, one of the nation's HBCUs (Historically Black Universities and Colleges). So mad that they staged a protest today. Why? Because of problems with on-campus housing, delays in financial aid payments and labor practices.

Some students could not pay their rent on-campus because their financial aid forms were processed passed the date that they needed the money. It is reported that some financial aid payments are over two weeks late.

The blame seems to fall on the interim vice provost of student affairs, Charles Gibbs. Gibbs is also said to have censored an article in Howard's student-run paper, Hilltop. The subject was about disciplinary actions against students. This violated "Freedom of the Press" for the students.

Unions for the service workers are in a disagreement on the university’s employment practices. But this is not the first time that there has been unrest at Howard University.

Dexter Williams, a junior at Howard, said that "I don't think this is the right way...There have been many protests on campus before, and nothing's changed."

The Office of the Provost sent a statement out to the public: "We take the concerns raised by our students very seriously, and the university is committed to providing a high-quality education and first-rate student support services."