Why the Orange Blossom Classic matters for Miamians | Opinion

When most people picture Miami, they think of our sandy beaches, glittering nightlife, and world-famous festivals. But for those of us who grew up here, Miami is also known for the big game that carries just as much pride as any global event — the Orange Blossom Classic (OBC).

As a child, I can still remember standing on the sidewalks, wide-eyed, watching bands, dancers, and floats roll by in the parade. The energy was electric, powered by community pride.

Years later, as a college student, I came home in 1988 just for the Classic — when my North Carolina A&T Aggies took on the FAMU Rattlers. To share my hometown tradition with my college friends was unforgettable. The Orange Blossom Classic wasn’t just a game; it was a cultural homecoming.

Today, at a time when our history is too often overlooked or rewritten, the Classic is more than nostalgia — it’s a living reminder of who we are. Thanks to the vision and reimagined leadership of Kendra N. Bulluck-Major, the OBC has been introduced to a new generation. And it matters. Because this game doesn’t just entertain — it educates, uplifts, and invests in our future. To date, the Orange Blossom Classic has awarded over half a million dollars in scholarships to South Florida students attending HBCUs. That impact continues this year with the Welcome Reception and Kickoff Luncheon on Friday, Aug. 29.

Unlike many large-scale festivals that sweep through Miami, the OBC is locally produced — rooted in us, by us, for us. Its economic footprint is felt right here at home: jobs for vendors, revenue for small businesses, and pride reinvested into our neighborhoods. This isn’t imported entertainment — it’s a Miami-grown tradition. And it’s accessible. Many events are free and open to the community, while tickets for the big game start at just $30, making it one of the most affordable, family-friendly experiences in the city. Every ticket sold, every event attended, directly supports HBCU students and players — the very future of our community.

So, why does the Orange Blossom Classic matter for Miamians? Because it is ours. It is our culture, our community, and our history — alive, thriving, and still worth celebrating. This is more than a football game. It’s a legacy. And it’s on us to carry it forward.

Jessica Garrett Modkins is the founding member and vice president of the Black Owned Media Alliance, publisher of the Culture News, and president of Hip Rock Star, a media corporation.

This story was originally published August 29, 2025 at 12:48 PM.