Who Are We?
The Paul Robeson Cultural Center (PRCC) was founded in 1969, and is dedicated to serving the Rutgers University community by offering a wealth of programs, initiatives and services that reflect the robust history, heritage and diversity of the African diaspora. Widely recognized as the first black cultural center on a college campus in the United States, PRCC, like most black cultural centers was established in response to the activism/struggle of black students, who organized a campaign calling for greater representation of black faculty, students and staff members.
Named after one of Rutgers University’s most esteemed alumni, Paul Robeson, PRCC has functioned as a safe haven, “home away from home” and community hub for our students, staff/faculty, alumni and community members of the greater New Brunswick/New Jersey area. As the Paul Robeson Cultural Center celebrates and honors Black diasporic experiences/identities, we consider ourselves a vibrant and instrumental component of University life, committed to make Rutgers an inclusive and welcoming space for all populations by way of community outreach, student support and cultural/educational resources. The PRCC offers programs/events celebrating the contributions of African-Americans to American and global literature, the sciences and arts. Signature programs include Open House, Robeson Arts Week, Black Arts Gallery Series, State of the [Black] Union Address, Kwanzaa at Rutgers, Sankofa Film Series, Homecoming BLACKout Weekend and Rites of Passage Graduation Ceremony.