On campus, we talk a lot about unity and pride. Giving blood is one of the most direct ways to show it. It’s an act of solidarity, of saying, I’ve got you. Think about it: in the time it takes to grab lunch or scroll through TikTok, you could literally help save lives.
More than 100,000 people in the U.S. live with sickle cell disease, and most of them are Black. For many of these patients, regular blood transfusions aren’t optional—they’re lifesaving. Did you know that one in three African American blood donors is a match for patients with sickle cell disease? That means when Black students and community members give blood, they’re helping to improve outcomes for patients in their communities.
Though approximately 62% of the U.S. population is eligible to donate blood, only about 3% do so. This makes it harder for sickle cell patients to get the care they need. Imagine how much stronger our communities would be if more of us donated just once a year. When we give together, we heal together.
Many people hesitate because of fear—whether it’s needles, mistrust, or not knowing what to expect. But the process is quick, safe, and often easier than imagined. From sign-in to finishing up, it usually takes about an hour, with the actual donation lasting about 8-10 minutes. Learn more at RedCrossBlood.org/OurBlood.
Doctors and community leaders are already working to make donating easier and more welcoming—through church partnerships, HBCU blood drives, and student organizations. These efforts show that when donation feels accessible and familiar, more people are willing to take part.
Myth 1: It isn’t safe to donate blood.
Fact: Donating blood is completely safe—every needle is brand new, sterile, and used only once before being discarded.
Myth 2: People with tattoos and piercings aren’t eligible to donate blood.
Fact: Having tattoos or piercings doesn’t automatically disqualify you, as long as they were done at a licensed facility and have healed (usually within three months).
Myth 3: Individuals in the LGBTQ+ community aren’t eligible to donate blood.
Fact: Eligibility rules for LGBTQ+ donors have also changed in recent years—many who thought they couldn’t give are now able to donate.
Myth 4: With the FDA approval of two groundbreaking gene therapies, people with sickle cell disease will no longer need blood donations.
Fact: Not all patients are eligible to receive gene therapy. However, patients with sickle cell disease undergoing gene therapy or stem cell transplants also require blood donations that are closely matched to avoid transfusion-related complications. Blood donors who are Black are almost 3 times more likely to be a match for the blood most commonly needed.
Myth 5: Donating blood takes too long.
Fact: The actual whole blood donation part is about 8–10 minutes. With sign-in and refreshments, the entire process usually takes about an hour. Donors can also save up to 15 minutes by completing a RapidPass® on the day of donation, from a mobile device or computer at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass.
On HBCU campuses, the potential is powerful. Imagine if all student government associations, campus ministries, and Divine Nine organizations hosted annual blood drives as part of their service work. Each event would not only collect lifesaving donations but also build a culture of giving and unity on campus.
Thanks to initiatives like the Red Cross HBCU Ambassador Program, students are already leading the way—organizing drives, encouraging peers to roll up their sleeves, and showing that giving blood is both impactful and accessible. Blood drives can become as integral to student life as homecoming events, step shows, or community service days.
That’s the power of us: when individuals act, lives are saved. When whole communities act, the future changes.
So the next time there’s a blood drive on campus, or you hear about one in your city, consider showing up. Bring a friend. Post about it. Normalize it. Because our community is stronger when we step up for each other, and giving blood is one of the most powerful ways we can do that.
Every pint of blood matters. Every donor makes a difference. And when students lead the way, they set the tone for generations of healthier, stronger communities.
Final Word: Giving blood isn’t just about healthcare—it’s about community care. It’s about protecting each other, showing up for one another, and proving that when we give together, we heal together.
Ready to make an impact? Schedule a blood donation appointment today by visiting RedCrossBlood.org/OurBlood.
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