Foreign Influence on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
In a recent investigation, it has been revealed that a US communication firm, Wilson Global Communications, has been operating as a foreign agent for the China-United States Exchange Foundation (CUSEF) since 2017. This partnership has raised concerns about potential foreign influence on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States.
Questionable Origins
The relationship between Wilson Global Communications and CUSEF began in 2009 when Tung Chee-hwa, CUSEF’s founding chairman and former chief executive of Hong Kong, visited the firm’s office in Washington, D.C. At the time, Chee-hwa expressed a desire to learn more about Black Americans and their role in electing Barack Obama as the first Black president of the United States.
Expanding Influence
Since then, Wilson Global Communications has been involved in an African American Initiative, focusing on education, business, and civic affairs. As part of this initiative, the firm manages a program that allows HBCU students and members of the Congressional Black Caucus to study in China, with expenses covered by the Chinese government.
Concerns about CCP Influence
Despite warnings and alarm bells about the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) influence on CUSEF, many organizations have chosen to ignore these concerns. The CPPCC, closely tied to CUSEF, is known to work towards co-opting and neutralizing potential sources of opposition to the CCP’s policies and authority.
Experts have expressed worries about the negative impact of assisting groups like CUSEF, as it ultimately helps the CCP and harms American interests. The need for greater awareness and vigilance in recognizing and countering foreign influence cannot be overstated.
Controversial Confucius Institute
Another area of concern is the Confucius Institute, which was brought to Xavier University of Louisiana through negotiations facilitated by Wilson Global Communications in 2010. The Confucius Institute, funded by the Chinese government, has faced criticism for promoting CCP propaganda and has since faced numerous closures.
Financial Incentives
Wilson Global Communications has received over $1 million from CUSEF between 2017 and the end of last year. The firm’s responsibilities include engaging with US elected officials, coordinating American student visits to China, and building dialogue between China and African American education and civic leaders.
Lack of Transparency and Response
Despite the significant implications of this partnership, neither Wilson Global Communications, CUSEF, nor the Congressional Black Caucus have responded to inquiries or provided transparency regarding their activities.
The concern remains that foreign influence on HBCUs and other institutions may compromise American interests and undermine the principles of transparency and autonomy.
