Photo Credit: Chicago Mayor’s Office
Chicago, are you ready for some Football?
“After today, I won’t need to ask that question again because we have some exciting news,” stated Larry Huggins, co-founder of the Chicago Football Classic.
At the CFC press conference on Monday (Sept. 16), Mayor Brandon Johnson officially declared Sept. 16-21 as “Chicago Football Classic HBCU Week,” honoring the CFC’s commitment to promoting the value of an education from Historically black colleges and universities.
Huggins also shared that when Kevin Warren, President and CEO of the Chicago Bears, returns to town, there will be a discussion about the Bears becoming the CFC’s title sponsor. This would mark the first time an NFL team has endorsed a football classic, a significant milestone.
“As the Mayor always says, we live in the most beautiful city in the world, and that’s the truth,” said Huggins. “This new relationship will provide more scholarship opportunities for Chicago’s young men and women. With 62,000 fans in the stadium, we can expand our outreach and offer additional scholarships. Our involvement in this event is not just about the game—it’s about giving back to this amazing city. As business leaders, Tim, Everette, and I are committed to making a difference, and this is our way of contributing to the community.”
Mayor Johnson began his speech by acknowledging the notable figures present, including those he has enjoyed working closely with: Cook County Commissioners Donna Miller and Tara Stamps and State Rep. Kimberly du Buclet.
He emphasized the event’s core mission of supporting young people: “Thanks to the Chicago Football Classic, we can award over $1 million in scholarships to students attending HBCUs. Your efforts are significantly impacting—Larry, Tim, Everette and all the partners involved.”
Mayor Johnson also acknowledged Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, the first Black Speaker of the Illinois House.
The mayor ended his speech by expressing his profound honor in proclaiming that this week was “Chicago Football Classic HBCU Week.”
The culminating event is the football classic, which takes place Saturday, Sept. 21, at Soldier Field. It will feature the Kentucky State University Thorobreds versus the Morehouse Maroon Tigers, two venerable HBCUs.
“We are all eagerly anticipating this event, and I want to extend a special thanks to the Chicago Bears for their commitment to supporting and engaging with us through football. The Mayor of Chicago’s dedication to highlighting and supporting our young people is crucial for our city and the entire country,” said Ald. Lamont Robinson (4th).
This year, the event will honor Rev. Jesse Jackson, a proud North Carolina A&T University graduate, a historically Black college. As HBCU alums, the speakers recognize these institutions’ vital role in developing leaders and advancing society.
Congressman Danny K. Davis acknowledged that while he may not know Larry Huggins’ exact football position, he recognizes Huggins and the Rand family’s significant impact on the community alongside Rev. Jesse Jackson.
He added, “I also want to commend Reverend Jesse Lewis Jackson for his powerful advocacy in affirmative action, education and civil rights. His remarkable contributions to justice and equality are deeply appreciated, and we are truly grateful for his dedication.”
Assistant Director of Government and Community Affairs Heather Way Kitzes expressed her gratitude, stating, “While this event focuses on football, it’s an honor to represent the Chicago Cubs.” She also acknowledged Julian Green, the Cubs’ former PR person.
Kitzes noted that the Cubs are excited to continue partnering with the Chicago Football Classic. “We are proud to have supported this event for the past 12 years, advancing higher education and community engagement,” she said.
Kitzes shared that the Cubs will host HBCU Night at Wrigley Field on Thursday, Sept. 19. She invited attendees to a pregame reception at The Brickhouse, 3663 North Clark Street, where the Kentucky State University marching band will perform at 5:15 p.m. The athletic director of Kentucky State University will throw out the first pitch.
Another focus of the CFC is promoting financial literacy education, especially for students
Ron Redd from BMO Bank shared, “One of our highlights is engaging with hundreds of young people to discuss financial literacy. Financial literacy is crucial for personal growth and responsibility as young people transition into adulthood.”
Investing in the youth and creating higher education opportunities is essential, and this event also introduces students to various industries. This summer, over 27,000 young people secured jobs, with six of the top ten neighborhoods on the South Side and four on the West Side.
Moreover, the Bears’ historic endorsement of the Chicago Football Classic, HBCU week and Career Fair will significantly impact young people pursuing higher education.
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