Students in Washington, D.C. will take center stage this week as the National Action Network brings its Ascend HBCU Tour to two of the District’s most influential institutions: Howard University and the University of the District of Columbia.
The multi-day initiative, led by civil rights leader Rev. Al Sharpton, is designed to equip students with practical tools for civic engagement, organizing, and policy advocacy. The D.C. stops follow earlier tour events in Philadelphia and coincide with growing national conversations around voting rights, civil liberties, and the role of young leaders in shaping the future.
Howard University will host an evening civic engagement training on Thursday, January 29, at the Blackburn University Center, while the University of the District of Columbia will welcome students Friday morning for a session at the Student Center Ballroom. Morgan State University in Baltimore will also host a training earlier Thursday as part of the regional tour.
According to NAN leadership, engaging students in the nation’s capital is especially critical as federal policy decisions increasingly impact marginalized communities. Organizers say the sessions are focused not on political parties, but on participation, accountability, and empowering students to advocate for themselves and their communities.
The Ascend HBCU Tour is a collaborative effort between National Action Network and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., one of the nation’s oldest Black Greek-letter organizations. Together, they aim to strengthen civic infrastructure on HBCU campuses while preparing students for leadership beyond graduation.
DC-Area Event Details
Howard University
Thursday, January 29, 2026 | 5:30 PM
Blackburn University Center | Washington, D.C.
University of the District of Columbia
Friday, January 30, 2026 | 9:00 AM
Student Center Ballroom | Washington, D.C.
With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, organizers say the message to students is clear: civic engagement doesn’t start on Election Day—it starts with education, organization, and community action.
