TSU sets early curfew for homecoming events amid safety concerns; students react

Texas Southern University (TSU) is implementing a major change to its traditional homecoming schedule this year, and the move is drawing mixed reactions from students.

University President J.W. Crawford announced that all Saturday homecoming events, including tailgating, must end by 7 p.m. The decision comes amid growing concerns over violence at recent events held at colleges, including other historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

Why the change?

In a letter addressed to students and alumni, President Crawford said the change follows a review of national trends, local crime data, and safety assessments conducted with the university’s Department of Public Safety and Risk Management Team.

“After careful thought and conversations with our safety teams and alumni leadership, I have made the decision,” the letter stated.

NBC and The Clarion Ledger report instances of violence at other homecoming festivities.

• A shooting at Alcorn State University in Mississippi left one person dead.
• At Jackson State University, a child was injured during a homecoming tailgate shooting.
• In Montgomery, Alabama, two people were killed during the Morehouse-Tuskegee Classic weekend.
• A woman died after a shooting following South Carolina State University’s football game.

While the Third Ward area around TSU has seen a drop in most violent crimes, the administration is opting for a proactive approach.

Student reactions: Mixed emotions

The announcement has left students feeling conflicted, balancing concerns over safety with disappointment about a shortened celebration.

“Of course, I want to have a homecoming experience, but my safety always comes first,” said student Tyrin Clemmons.

Others are skeptical about how effective the earlier cutoff will be.

“People are still going to party. But I respect the campus for trying,” said Madison Collier.

“Honestly, you can’t really prevent everything. Moving the time might help a little, but anything can happen,” added Destynee Mosley.

Some students argue the change may be an overreaction:

“I understand safety, but it hasn’t really been an issue here,” said Bryce Odum, a TSU student.

“I feel like it’s not necessary,” said Julius Carter.

In addition to the 7 p.m. curfew on Saturday events, the university will:

• Increase campus security, deploying more than 85 law enforcement officers throughout the weekend.
• Start the homecoming football game one hour earlier, kicking off at 1 p.m. against Virginia University of Lynchburg.

The University President’s message to students and alumni was posted to TSU’s official Facebook page — with the comment section disabled, a move some believe signals expected backlash.

With safety top-of-mind and tensions high following national incidents, TSU is hoping the adjustments will ensure a festive, and safe, homecoming weekend.

Whether the changes will prevent incidents or simply push the celebrations elsewhere remains to be seen.