The difficulty with student activism is that it is undeveloped ideologies focusing on inclusion amd representation that already exist (which they largely do not participate in anyway). My so-called "white privilege" does not create the belligerent attitudes, disruptive behaviors nor absenteeism that current plagues public education. Calling the nation or our educational endeavors failures, is essentially calling "We The People" inept at doing what is necessary. Pointing to problems and offering little solutions will not correct the problems. Our funding and reform efforts habve been subverted amd thwarted in favor of the Uber, Selfie, Tweet culture that seems disconnected from academic rigors and has no vested interest in the outcome (unless it will provide their creature comforts at the taxpayers expense). The teacher who provides hand sanitzer, tissues, cell phone time, test curves and constant breaks from the mental exhaustion of mini-lessons will be evaluated as "proficient". Not to worry America, the next generation will lower the boom and roll us into a state of perpetual "under the weather".
6
I'm sick of the NYT's endless stream of articles about how much racism blacks face. Somehow other minorities - Asian, Hispanic, Native American - do not face as much racism as blacks do. Every racial group experiences racism, even whites. Stop trying to perpetuate the idea that blacks have it the worst in America. Maybe that's true in some Southern parts of the United States, but definitely not in the West or East coasts. Poor, working class Americans have it the worst in America, not blacks.
My parents fled from China to the US during the Cultural Revolution, when Mao went on to systematically purge anybody who posed a threat to his power. My parents were dirt poor when they arrived in the US. They experienced racist insults and racist incidents. But when I was in school they worked 80-hour workweeks to support me and my siblings.
I was a minority in the neighborhood I grew up in. People made slanted eyes at me and told me to "go back to my own country" even though I was born in the US. But I survived. And my parents survived. I didn't need to feel bitter and go out to the streets and protest. I used my time to work hard and do what I love. Now I earn six figures. In one generation my family has jumped from dirty poor to middle-class, despite the racism and difficulties we face.
If you're a disadvantaged minority (and yes, Asians are disadvantaged minorities), stop complaining and hit the books.
My parents fled from China to the US during the Cultural Revolution, when Mao went on to systematically purge anybody who posed a threat to his power. My parents were dirt poor when they arrived in the US. They experienced racist insults and racist incidents. But when I was in school they worked 80-hour workweeks to support me and my siblings.
I was a minority in the neighborhood I grew up in. People made slanted eyes at me and told me to "go back to my own country" even though I was born in the US. But I survived. And my parents survived. I didn't need to feel bitter and go out to the streets and protest. I used my time to work hard and do what I love. Now I earn six figures. In one generation my family has jumped from dirty poor to middle-class, despite the racism and difficulties we face.
If you're a disadvantaged minority (and yes, Asians are disadvantaged minorities), stop complaining and hit the books.
14
Given the extreme segregation of wealth existing in our country today, those suffering from racial, gender, or another type of unjust inequality might be better served fighting against income inequality, first and foremost (rather than focusing on their own, particular form of discrimination). It's a sad situation when income-based injustice trumps (so-to-speak) these other forms of discrimination.
3
Given the extreme segregation of wealth existing in our country today, those suffering from racial, gender, or another type of unjust inequality might be better served fighting for income inequality, first and foremost (rather than focusing on their own, particular form of discrimination). It's a sad situation when income-based injustice trumps (so-to-speak) these other forms of discrimination.
2
Seriously NY Times? You couldn't find a student from the University of Mississippi to profile? You are quick to highlight when something bad happens at UM but now you ignore some amazing students and what they are doing. Students in the UM chapter of the NAACP were just recognized by the national organization for their efforts that led to the removal of the state flag from campus. Activism on social issues is back and students are leading the way.
1
"Students at the social work school here held a teach-in over racist comments one of their white professors had made. He said Black Lives Matter should focus on black-on-black crime rather than police brutality. He read a rap song he wrote about it. First and foremost, it’s empirically inaccurate for someone with a Ph.D. who studies vulnerable communities to assert such a thing. Second, to be so culturally insensitive as to insist that the only way you can get black students to understand is to do a rap song, especially in a graduate program at one of the top schools in the country, is insulting."
These comments typify why millions of white people who once stood in solidarity with the Civil Rights movement when water canons and German shepherds were being unleashed on law-abiding African Americans by the Bull Connors have basically washed their hands of the entire question of race in America, especially in the aftermath of Crips/Bloods, the LA riots, the OJ verdict, and "don't snitch" culture where respected black celebrities like P Diddy can apparently get away with murder.
The facts are that 90% of all black homicide deaths in this country are inflicted by other blacks, and blacks, who make up only 13% of the population commit 55% of all homicides, period.
When I was an anti-Apartheid activist in the 80s there wasn't a single black American student participant out of hundreds of protesters on my campus. Made even African friends of mine at the time scratch their heads.
These comments typify why millions of white people who once stood in solidarity with the Civil Rights movement when water canons and German shepherds were being unleashed on law-abiding African Americans by the Bull Connors have basically washed their hands of the entire question of race in America, especially in the aftermath of Crips/Bloods, the LA riots, the OJ verdict, and "don't snitch" culture where respected black celebrities like P Diddy can apparently get away with murder.
The facts are that 90% of all black homicide deaths in this country are inflicted by other blacks, and blacks, who make up only 13% of the population commit 55% of all homicides, period.
When I was an anti-Apartheid activist in the 80s there wasn't a single black American student participant out of hundreds of protesters on my campus. Made even African friends of mine at the time scratch their heads.
12
Psychologists often treat patients who have been traumatized by some vicious or predatory behavior. Many such patients become so fixated on the unfairness or injustice of what has befallen them that they re-victimize themselves with non-productive or self-destructive behaviors. And the key to treating such patients is getting them to move past the injury to live positive and constructive lives, whether or not they ever receive the justice or amends they desire from their perpetrators. Living well, of course, is the best revenge.
There is absolutely no question that racism has been a destructive force in America. Many of these activists -- particularly as they center their lives and careers around analyzing it, dissecting it, and demonstrating its existence in all things -- are living a counter-productive fixation. Wouldn't their energies be better spent creating stronger institutions within the Black community than constantly whining about micro-aggressions, demanding apologies and reparations, and begging white people to surrender their privileges? This type of activism may play well for the TV cameras, add a few more jobs to the diversity industry and help the minority turnout efforts of Democratic presidential candidates, but is it really improving the lots of Black Americans or Black Students on college campuses? I think not.
There is absolutely no question that racism has been a destructive force in America. Many of these activists -- particularly as they center their lives and careers around analyzing it, dissecting it, and demonstrating its existence in all things -- are living a counter-productive fixation. Wouldn't their energies be better spent creating stronger institutions within the Black community than constantly whining about micro-aggressions, demanding apologies and reparations, and begging white people to surrender their privileges? This type of activism may play well for the TV cameras, add a few more jobs to the diversity industry and help the minority turnout efforts of Democratic presidential candidates, but is it really improving the lots of Black Americans or Black Students on college campuses? I think not.
8
A sad group of stories of new "activists" that think only of de facto quotas, "safe spaces" and all the other things that restrict free speech and fairness for their fascist multicultural fantasy world.
There are all sorts of indignities and injustices in the world and we ALL encounter them everyday. In addition, it is extremely difficult to change things, many are beyond our control and many are not personal. But we can change ourselves and our approach towards things.
Acting only as a victim, or as the aggrieved, leaves most anyone unsatisfied. Education and a hard work ethic go far to help ameliorate some of the worst of life's injustices.
Creating an identity that is about negativity, past versus future, changing other people to suit your worldview, arguing about feelings versus proactive and positive concepts and actions, and constantly calling anyone who doesn't agree with you a racist or xenophobe is a sure way to never get what you want.
And maybe that's a good thing for the rest of us. Let's do a follow up 5 and 10 years from now, with the same people and see how their life strategies have served them during those years. Will they be happy and successful? I would doubt it. And whose fault would that be?
There are all sorts of indignities and injustices in the world and we ALL encounter them everyday. In addition, it is extremely difficult to change things, many are beyond our control and many are not personal. But we can change ourselves and our approach towards things.
Acting only as a victim, or as the aggrieved, leaves most anyone unsatisfied. Education and a hard work ethic go far to help ameliorate some of the worst of life's injustices.
Creating an identity that is about negativity, past versus future, changing other people to suit your worldview, arguing about feelings versus proactive and positive concepts and actions, and constantly calling anyone who doesn't agree with you a racist or xenophobe is a sure way to never get what you want.
And maybe that's a good thing for the rest of us. Let's do a follow up 5 and 10 years from now, with the same people and see how their life strategies have served them during those years. Will they be happy and successful? I would doubt it. And whose fault would that be?
9
One takeaway is that different students have very different kinds of concerns, depending on whether they are at Yale or Alabama.
But I'd make this general observation, having taught college. Universities can be supportive of black students but it is hard for them to police the thoughts and behavior of students who bring attitudes with them from home. Even inside the classroom, there is a teaching challenge, which is that if a really racist student makes a comment, the professor has to decide whether to shut down that student (and have them maintain their racist ideas, in silence, possibly for the rest of their lives) or having an open, constructive discussion in which there's some hope of changing the students perspective -- but in that case, the professor's apparent willingness to "tolerate" such perspectives could be seen as consenting that they are appropriate. It is actually a hard balance. You can't change a racist by shaming them into silence. Real change comes through human connection. So a professor who wants a student to become less racist has to be reasonably nice and polite to them -- but this in turn can feel like a slap in the face to students who just want those attitudes immediately silenced. From a pedagogical perspective, this is hard, and I wish some of these students would recognize that not all silence equals consent.
Add to that the political pressures on universities, and the pressure from parents and tuition dollars, and you've got a set of landmines.
But I'd make this general observation, having taught college. Universities can be supportive of black students but it is hard for them to police the thoughts and behavior of students who bring attitudes with them from home. Even inside the classroom, there is a teaching challenge, which is that if a really racist student makes a comment, the professor has to decide whether to shut down that student (and have them maintain their racist ideas, in silence, possibly for the rest of their lives) or having an open, constructive discussion in which there's some hope of changing the students perspective -- but in that case, the professor's apparent willingness to "tolerate" such perspectives could be seen as consenting that they are appropriate. It is actually a hard balance. You can't change a racist by shaming them into silence. Real change comes through human connection. So a professor who wants a student to become less racist has to be reasonably nice and polite to them -- but this in turn can feel like a slap in the face to students who just want those attitudes immediately silenced. From a pedagogical perspective, this is hard, and I wish some of these students would recognize that not all silence equals consent.
Add to that the political pressures on universities, and the pressure from parents and tuition dollars, and you've got a set of landmines.
4
I disagree! White students in my classes state offensive comments all the time and I correct them. Usually, their statements are grounded in stereotypes and I point out that stereotypes are not truth. I try to do it in a way such that no one is shamed but it must be done. In the words of the great Desmond Tutu - when you are silent on matters of injustice, you side with the oppressor. Silence does equal consent.
Because I think Amanda's cause is just, and right, I respectfully urge her to consider the following:
First, try majors other than "African American Studies" or "Gender Studies." Please (and I am begging), try math, science, engineering, nursing, business where you are grossly under-represented. There is nothing romantic about being unemployed while being supremely articulate about the nuances of race and gender. It renders you a bore.
Second, please don't pretend that others care. Self righteous anger is not currency; leave that to uneducated whites who are clamoring to Trump and Cruz, and vote republican. Selma is over; there is no currency to suffering righteously. You are ignoring the evidence from Flint, veterans, uninsured, cops shooting blacks.
Third, that your grand father was a share cropper produces NO response from the 50 million of us who now live here, but grew up without electricity, running water in South Asia, or came on leaky boats from Laos and Vietnam, or walked across the border with Mexico. We came here with less than you were born with.
Shout all you want, it isn't getting better until you make it impossible for others to respect you as equal, contributing, invaluable citizens. Without economic power, you have nothing. And without education, there is no economic power.
Katrina demonstrated that blacks do not care about blacks; most people helping were whites. I saw that. I love you, but will you please cut the baloney.
Kalidan
First, try majors other than "African American Studies" or "Gender Studies." Please (and I am begging), try math, science, engineering, nursing, business where you are grossly under-represented. There is nothing romantic about being unemployed while being supremely articulate about the nuances of race and gender. It renders you a bore.
Second, please don't pretend that others care. Self righteous anger is not currency; leave that to uneducated whites who are clamoring to Trump and Cruz, and vote republican. Selma is over; there is no currency to suffering righteously. You are ignoring the evidence from Flint, veterans, uninsured, cops shooting blacks.
Third, that your grand father was a share cropper produces NO response from the 50 million of us who now live here, but grew up without electricity, running water in South Asia, or came on leaky boats from Laos and Vietnam, or walked across the border with Mexico. We came here with less than you were born with.
Shout all you want, it isn't getting better until you make it impossible for others to respect you as equal, contributing, invaluable citizens. Without economic power, you have nothing. And without education, there is no economic power.
Katrina demonstrated that blacks do not care about blacks; most people helping were whites. I saw that. I love you, but will you please cut the baloney.
Kalidan
18
Your words have been spoken under different tones, forms, expressions by many. And many were accused of racist for that. Don't expect any appreciation.
3
So many commenters disagree with the "radical" tactics, but even the coalition-type activities MUST agree that college campuses should be safe places for radical ideas and movements. And anyway when those radical ideas trickle down into our greater society "of the people," they naturally will become a bit diluted and whitewashed (for lack of a better phrase!), but will probably move the needle more than the trickling down of the coalition/talk therapy-type movements. How many more black people have to die? Radical change takes radical movements.
it really saddens me to know that in the 21st century
people are still caught up in this tug of war over the color of another person's skin.
when will there come a generation that won't exalt one race over another?
enough time has passed to shatter to dust the lie that Racism is a just cause.
the human that can avoid the aging process and death is the one who is superior.
and who would go out of their way to make such a person feel uncomfortable and undervalued?
I have never met a single human being whether so called black or white
that does not have the same basic needs as one another.
the planet is a huge place
big enough to accommodate many people
and unlike humans it doesn't discriminate and let some in while turn others away.
so why do we still treat each other like that?
also when racism spreads in a county in which the common people puts its collective hands out to the god of Christianity,
there is clearly something wrong.
because The principles of Christianity serves as a moral cleanser,
washing away the filthy traits of humans
and replacing them with the traits of the one who created us.
a nation that claims its god of worship is the god of Christianity
is obliged to show it by the way it treats one another.
reflecting the way god treats us rather than treating each other in ways that don't have the approval of our creator.
racism is a disease and it is time it was washed away permanently.
everyone one has a right to live
we are all god's children.
people are still caught up in this tug of war over the color of another person's skin.
when will there come a generation that won't exalt one race over another?
enough time has passed to shatter to dust the lie that Racism is a just cause.
the human that can avoid the aging process and death is the one who is superior.
and who would go out of their way to make such a person feel uncomfortable and undervalued?
I have never met a single human being whether so called black or white
that does not have the same basic needs as one another.
the planet is a huge place
big enough to accommodate many people
and unlike humans it doesn't discriminate and let some in while turn others away.
so why do we still treat each other like that?
also when racism spreads in a county in which the common people puts its collective hands out to the god of Christianity,
there is clearly something wrong.
because The principles of Christianity serves as a moral cleanser,
washing away the filthy traits of humans
and replacing them with the traits of the one who created us.
a nation that claims its god of worship is the god of Christianity
is obliged to show it by the way it treats one another.
reflecting the way god treats us rather than treating each other in ways that don't have the approval of our creator.
racism is a disease and it is time it was washed away permanently.
everyone one has a right to live
we are all god's children.
2
It never seems to amaze me how quickly white people of all shades and all parts of the political spectrum line up together to oppose anything and anyone who speaks out against the oppression of the black population. To say for example that liberal white Americans are more pro-black than conservatives is in large parts a myth. Liberals have always stayed silent in the face of oppression by the majority white population. In fact the vast majority of liberals deep down know that they benefit from white privilege as much as if not more than white conservatives. I urge the brothers and sisters who are fighting for equality on the college campuses to keep strong, dont expect public support especially by the white population and to keep their heads up knowing the fight for justice is not always popular.
4
Minority protestors who complain about the lack of inclusiveness on college campuses often seem completely unaware of campus demographics. According to a recent Pew Research survey, white students make up 59 percent of high school graduates and 58 percent of college students. Blacks make up 16 percent of high school graduates and 14 percent of college students. Hispanics make up 18 percent of high school graduates and 19 percent of college students. Asian make up 6 percent of college graduates and 7 percent of college graduates. Students categorized as “other” make up 1 percent of high school graduates and 2 percent of college students. The racial and ethnic disparity in college enrollment is tiny, and white students are underrepresented. White students also are underrepresented at most elite private schools. For example, Nailah Harper-Malveaux demands more inclusiveness at Yale, but whites, who make up 62 percent the U.S. population, make up only 47.4 percent of the Yale student body. Her complaint seems to be there are still too many white students even though they are outnumbered by minority students. What would we call a white student who complained Yale had too many black, Asia or Hispanic students?
http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2014/04/24/more-hispanics-blacks-en...
http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2014/04/24/more-hispanics-blacks-en...
14
While some of the statements of these student activists certainly warrant arguments, I am chagrined by the tenor of many of the top Readers' Picks comments.
Example:
"Work hard, pay taxes, raise your kids right, obey legitimate authorities, don't walk around with a chip on your shoulder and you'll be just fine."
Really? Racism is not a problem if you behave properly?
Tell that to the families of Tamir Rice and Sandra Bland.
Tell that to my middle-class black friends in northern California, parents of sons, who live in terror that their children will make a wrong move (as interpreted by a police officer...e.g. reaching for your driver's license too rapidly) and end up dead.
To ignore racism or deny it has a significantly-negative effect on millions of black people --as many of these most popular comments do --is just plain ignorant.
That the comments of this ilk come from NYT readers, as do the recommendations, shows how prevalent and pervasive racism is in American society in 2016.
Example:
"Work hard, pay taxes, raise your kids right, obey legitimate authorities, don't walk around with a chip on your shoulder and you'll be just fine."
Really? Racism is not a problem if you behave properly?
Tell that to the families of Tamir Rice and Sandra Bland.
Tell that to my middle-class black friends in northern California, parents of sons, who live in terror that their children will make a wrong move (as interpreted by a police officer...e.g. reaching for your driver's license too rapidly) and end up dead.
To ignore racism or deny it has a significantly-negative effect on millions of black people --as many of these most popular comments do --is just plain ignorant.
That the comments of this ilk come from NYT readers, as do the recommendations, shows how prevalent and pervasive racism is in American society in 2016.
8
The array of students you selected suggests an interesting point. Three of the seven are pursuing academic degrees in race and wish to pursue careers as activists. Their thought processes are highly influenced by so-called critical race theory, which intellectualizes racism and proceeds to find oppression and victimization in every form of human interaction. Two of the seven are pursuing degrees in traditional academic disciplines that might actually lead to gainful employment in the broader economy. They see the student protest movements as destructive attempts to impose critical race ideology as a mandatory code of thought, conduct and behavior on campus. Their movements are based upon freedom of expression and their desire to be a part of the university community.
It is time for America to closely examine what is being taught in these victim-centered academic programs, in which racial, gender and sexual orientation activists teach as undeniable truth the concept that freedom begets racism, sexism and homophobia. Such an examination is particularly important now that college administrators routinely capitulate to activist demands by imposing these victimization ideologies as mandatory codes of behavior or required courses of study. The typical American parent would be both shocked and dismayed to learn what is being foisted upon their children in the name of equity, diversity and inclusiveness.
It is time for America to closely examine what is being taught in these victim-centered academic programs, in which racial, gender and sexual orientation activists teach as undeniable truth the concept that freedom begets racism, sexism and homophobia. Such an examination is particularly important now that college administrators routinely capitulate to activist demands by imposing these victimization ideologies as mandatory codes of behavior or required courses of study. The typical American parent would be both shocked and dismayed to learn what is being foisted upon their children in the name of equity, diversity and inclusiveness.
22
Huh? The one guy wants to stop the "racism" of $200 fines for dim tail lights. I'm totally in his corner on that one. I got a $150 find for going 3 over in a 25 mph zone. I demand that be stopped! Now! (And could I have my money back?)
But if some prof suggests BLM should focus on black on black crime, and then invents some rap lyrics to emphasize his point, that's not racism. That's just someone trying expand the dialogue, be helpful and creative. Besides, black artists don't "own" rap. It's a music genre. Anybody can participate. Some have even said Bob Dylan invented it, and I know there was some early rap in the musical "Godspell."
But if some prof suggests BLM should focus on black on black crime, and then invents some rap lyrics to emphasize his point, that's not racism. That's just someone trying expand the dialogue, be helpful and creative. Besides, black artists don't "own" rap. It's a music genre. Anybody can participate. Some have even said Bob Dylan invented it, and I know there was some early rap in the musical "Godspell."
8
A black female University at Albany (UA) student was assaulted by a group of white students on campus recently. There have been accusations of the assault being a hate crime, and many students have banded together to protest what seems to be a pattern of racially charged violence at UA. I hope the Times eventually includes this incident in the developing narrative. http://m.nydailynews.com/new-york/3-ualbany-students-claim-bus-assault-r...
Actually that story was disproved after the original, inflammatory accusations came out, plastered across the media. The video on the bus seems to tell a different story:
http://news10.com/2016/02/03/sources-security-video-may-reveal-different...
Beware of these high-profile, shocking stories. A bunch of them are not what they seem.
http://news10.com/2016/02/03/sources-security-video-may-reveal-different...
Beware of these high-profile, shocking stories. A bunch of them are not what they seem.
7
The best way to make progress toward equality of acceptance in society is for these young students to show what they can accomplish, and, when they do, that is really all that counts for most right thinking people. It is not "us versus them." We are all in this together.
Unfortunately, people of all races these days are looking for equality of outcomes, when all that is really possible to offer is equality of opportunity. Then it is up to the individual to make the best choices possible and pursue them.
Some good cases in point might be Ben Carson and Barack Obama. They made good choices about their future and successfully pursued them. And look where they are now. Had they made other choices, such as dropping out of high school, we would most probably not even know who they are today.
I realize this might sound like meaningless advice to someone mired in poverty and from a broken home in a ghetto, but you have to start somewhere to break these cycles. Happily, the young students discussed in the article do not appear to fall into the poverty, broken home scenario. Perhaps, they will be more willing and better able through their accomplishments to address those problems for the benefit of future generations of all races.
Unfortunately, people of all races these days are looking for equality of outcomes, when all that is really possible to offer is equality of opportunity. Then it is up to the individual to make the best choices possible and pursue them.
Some good cases in point might be Ben Carson and Barack Obama. They made good choices about their future and successfully pursued them. And look where they are now. Had they made other choices, such as dropping out of high school, we would most probably not even know who they are today.
I realize this might sound like meaningless advice to someone mired in poverty and from a broken home in a ghetto, but you have to start somewhere to break these cycles. Happily, the young students discussed in the article do not appear to fall into the poverty, broken home scenario. Perhaps, they will be more willing and better able through their accomplishments to address those problems for the benefit of future generations of all races.
4
Totally sad that in 2016 in the U.S.A. black people continue to be belittled , harmed, and disrespected, and that Jews fear this as well. It is an ongoing curse, dealt to vulnerable groups. It seems to be part of the human condition.
3
I know people say "let's reverse the roles and how would we feel about white activists-" but here's a better one: how would we feel about Jewish student activists: I sympathize strongly with these students of color looking for greater equality and diversity but would they sympathize strongly with me, a Jewish college student? If I complained about about "micro-aggressions" against me for my Jewishness would they be sympathetic? Would they accuse me of just being a whiny white person who should be ignored? Would I have to face a "loyalty test" based on my political opinions on the Middle East? Would I be accused of being part of a group that controls banks, the government, Hollywood and lobby groups? Do I deserve access to the same liberation philosophy that they are espousing for most other minority groups?
12
Well of course you do deserve the same and so does everyone. But the reality is that some are discriminated against much more than others. You describe yourself as a whiny white person. White men are certainly privileged - regardless of ethnicity. The question is how much systematic discrimination do you face as a result of being Jewish?
1
I would more than support you if you claim legitimately that someone or some group oppressed you or discriminated about you. I wish more of the people in Nazi Germany only some 60 years ago some up on behalf of their oppressed Jewish brethren but then like now most people took the easy way out and enjoyed the privilege of not being Jewish. We ultimately saw where that went. We today make the serious mistake that humans learned from history and another pogum is impossible in today's date.
1
Exactly none. It is a huge advantage.
5
I wonder why the NY Times only featured African-American students and the one white student. Don't Asian,Indian,Latino, students attend college? Or is this like Idris's Elbas idea of "diversity" African American only?
15
When you go in, you ought to get it right: Idris Elba isn't African American. He's British of Ghanaian and Sierra Leonean descent. Elba's costar in Beasts of No Nation, Abraham Attah is Ghanaian, not American.
1
You are way behind, Stuck. For at least two years now the definition of diversity has the clear meaning of "black." It does not have reference to any other cultural/racial citizens, such as Asian [Chinese, Japanese, Indonesian, Indian, Pakistanis, Afghanis], Hispanics [who comprise the largest minority on campuses today and which is a rapidly growing minority in America today], etc, etc.
But the term has been captured and morphed into something meaning only black. Just saying.
But the term has been captured and morphed into something meaning only black. Just saying.
2
Good to see some young people still care about issues, politics, and policies more than their phones or Facebook.
Thank goodness!
Thank goodness!
3
Those who complain activists are self-righteous miss the point. They actually seek to professionalize their environment, even if they do it amateurishly. We're at a phase of ethnic relations where there's a distinction between private and public conversations. In private mix-race groups like Mr. Freeman describes, friends can mock their own and other biases, saying outrageous things even. Sometimes it'll hurt still, but it's also how we learn about ourselves.
Private insults can be as bad or worse than public ones, where power or status of people is different. But where it's not, and where threats of physical, emotional, or career harm don't exist, then banter isn't bad.
But doing the same thing in public weakens social structure. The professor Mr. Turner describes was really lame, using a rap song to persuade others. Unlike a private conversation, the students can't tell him what a sad wannabee spectacle he is, because that's no longer the problem. In public we fill roles; a professor's role is not go "bro on bro" with those who criticize him. That's cheating. He's got to respond within the system's parameters, in public.
Public discourse is coded. Political correctness to the left, 'America's the greatest' on the right. Obama is as careful about one as the other. The code is what's debated here.
Private insults can be as bad or worse than public ones, where power or status of people is different. But where it's not, and where threats of physical, emotional, or career harm don't exist, then banter isn't bad.
But doing the same thing in public weakens social structure. The professor Mr. Turner describes was really lame, using a rap song to persuade others. Unlike a private conversation, the students can't tell him what a sad wannabee spectacle he is, because that's no longer the problem. In public we fill roles; a professor's role is not go "bro on bro" with those who criticize him. That's cheating. He's got to respond within the system's parameters, in public.
Public discourse is coded. Political correctness to the left, 'America's the greatest' on the right. Obama is as careful about one as the other. The code is what's debated here.
2
It is bizarre that people keep repeating that removing a statue or renaming an institution "erases history." No, it doesn't. Wilson will still be where he belongs: in the history books. Just not venerated and (literally) idolized on publicly subsidized property.
4
The dialog in this article and the comments tend toward two separate conversations. One tends to be about seeing everyone as people, imperfect as they are, and the other tends to be about righteous segregation. Interestingly, the NYT picks are on posts that focus on the latter, while the reader picks are overwhelmingly for the former.
The latter posts also tend to decry the former with implications of being out of touch or racist. Some of the latter also excuse the students for their imperfect activism based on the fact that they are college students. But college isn't high school or the crib, its supposed to be where young adults think critically about the real world and are confronted with challenging ideas, not huddle in a self-protective us-verses-them attitude.
To the NYT and those who are offended by some of the comments of those being critical to some of the students: these students are going out to have their voices heard, and have agreed to be part of an international newspaper. So, perhaps the NYT comment pickers, the students, and those that want to cheer the students on, can also pay attention to, and try to understand, those who have critical comments, which are overwhelmingly greater in number of posts and recommendations, than posts which simplistically support all of these students and their beliefs.
The latter posts also tend to decry the former with implications of being out of touch or racist. Some of the latter also excuse the students for their imperfect activism based on the fact that they are college students. But college isn't high school or the crib, its supposed to be where young adults think critically about the real world and are confronted with challenging ideas, not huddle in a self-protective us-verses-them attitude.
To the NYT and those who are offended by some of the comments of those being critical to some of the students: these students are going out to have their voices heard, and have agreed to be part of an international newspaper. So, perhaps the NYT comment pickers, the students, and those that want to cheer the students on, can also pay attention to, and try to understand, those who have critical comments, which are overwhelmingly greater in number of posts and recommendations, than posts which simplistically support all of these students and their beliefs.
14
Actually Frank, not all the students featured in the article share the same beliefs (see Freeman and Zuckerman for example). That being stated, any one comment that empathizes with "all of these students and their beliefs" would hardly constitute a “simplistic” viewpoint.
Yes, the majority of the reader responses on this forum (and many forums across the internet) express grievances with students of color who boisterously demand that their concerns are taken more seriously on college campuses. Is any viewpoint held by the majority necessarily a morally or empirically rigorous one (see majority viewpoints on slavery or the shape of the Earth over the centuries)? Or might the majority viewpoint suggest - as many of these student activists are trying to do - that the very systemic issues in question are rooted in larger societal schisms?
Speaking for myself, I wasn’t “offended” by any opposing viewpoints. Nor am I entirely unsympathetic toward them. I think the rancor evident in some of the comments is very telling about what many Americans think about race relations, both on college campuses and more broadly.
Yes, the majority of the reader responses on this forum (and many forums across the internet) express grievances with students of color who boisterously demand that their concerns are taken more seriously on college campuses. Is any viewpoint held by the majority necessarily a morally or empirically rigorous one (see majority viewpoints on slavery or the shape of the Earth over the centuries)? Or might the majority viewpoint suggest - as many of these student activists are trying to do - that the very systemic issues in question are rooted in larger societal schisms?
Speaking for myself, I wasn’t “offended” by any opposing viewpoints. Nor am I entirely unsympathetic toward them. I think the rancor evident in some of the comments is very telling about what many Americans think about race relations, both on college campuses and more broadly.
Perhaps your scroll bar is not working because there are another set of comments that neither "sees everyone as people" (by which you must mean "individuals"), nor support "righteous segregation". What characterizes this third set of comments is the disparagement of the student activists for what reasons that are not related to their statements, e.g., white people are mugged by black people ergo these individual student activists should quit complaining, (ii) black people at my university can't read ergo these individual student activists should not be taken seriously, (iii) black people don't care about African dictators ergo the viewpoints of these individual student activists are not legitimate, (iv) majors that include examining the circumstance of black people are weak ergo these individual black people are weak, et cet. Do you see the pattern here? Rather than "seeing everyone as people [individuals]", these comments rely on a general premise (often weak, unfounded, or, yes, the "r" word) to evaluate the specific arguments made by these individuals. This third group of comments, quite substantial in number, actually argue in exactly the opposite direction as your description of the first group of comments. And, if you engage in a close reading, you will see that the negative responses to this third group are not advocating "righteous separation" but rather are showing the flawed argumentation in this third set of comments.
3
Goodness gracious!
From reading the comments, it is very clear that racism is alive and well in the US. I wonder about this disproportion: That most comment threads are littered with left-of-center perspectives, while those for this article, and for most of the stories and opinion pieces that have revived a long overdue focus on racial problems, are littered with animosity toward blacks.
I hope the disproportion reflects a magnet phenomena, where those who bear racist sentiments feel drawn and compelled to comment - and doesn't provide a reflective sample of the general NYTimes readership.
From reading the comments, it is very clear that racism is alive and well in the US. I wonder about this disproportion: That most comment threads are littered with left-of-center perspectives, while those for this article, and for most of the stories and opinion pieces that have revived a long overdue focus on racial problems, are littered with animosity toward blacks.
I hope the disproportion reflects a magnet phenomena, where those who bear racist sentiments feel drawn and compelled to comment - and doesn't provide a reflective sample of the general NYTimes readership.
7
False hope. Be empirical. This isn't Fox News. This is the NY Times. Calling something or rather dismissing something with false charge of racism only make you more disconnected with reality, like these student activists, who, if not make themselves politician career, may look back and regret their misspent youth on wallowing in excuses as a comforting avoidance of serious career building to be productive members of the society.
There is much that is legitimate about these students' complaints. I only read as far as the mention, by I think it was Storm Irvin, that she demonstrated in Ferguson. I have been revisiting some of the reporting on that. i watched Stephenopolis interview Officer Wilson, who killed Michael Brown. His words are believable. My friends say ,"Oh, they didn't indite in Ferguson," yet I didn't hear where are the holes in Wilson's story? If someone presents them, I would be interested.
5
Very poor reporting on the Kansas piece. Working on that campus, I have never heard of TEAM Jayhawk, but I know firsthand that this characterization of Rock Chalk Invisible Hawk is a slander. You should have talked to the Invisible Hawks, who have a much more sophisticated understanding of racism than what is expressed here. I'm afraid you've been spun.
5
I will add that in this particular context, reading the comments section is essential to one’s understanding of the story. I’m getting the overwhelming impression that readers impose an almost super-human expectation of articulateness, civility and composure on these college-aged activists. Yet the tone deaf calls for students of color to be grateful for their mere existence on college campuses, coupled with the not-so-subtle suggestions that beneficiaries of Affirmative Action can neither read nor write, flags some fairly egregious double standards among many of the responses.
Freeman and Zuckerman suggest an open conversation be had. But the conversation is being had in full furor in the online comment sections, on social media and anonymous campus forums like Yik Yak. Honesty may hide behind politeness in our daily interactions but anonymity has helped the internet become a forum for America to express what it really thinks. The message from a large segment of mainstream society is rather blunt: students of color have yet to earn the same privileges that white students have enjoyed on America’s campuses since the nation’s inception.
Freeman and Zuckerman suggest an open conversation be had. But the conversation is being had in full furor in the online comment sections, on social media and anonymous campus forums like Yik Yak. Honesty may hide behind politeness in our daily interactions but anonymity has helped the internet become a forum for America to express what it really thinks. The message from a large segment of mainstream society is rather blunt: students of color have yet to earn the same privileges that white students have enjoyed on America’s campuses since the nation’s inception.
20
I think that you make a very important point. Advocates, even for the most righteous cause, are never perfect. Advocates are often breaking new ground. They know something is wrong, and they are thinking through many issues.These are young people who are trying to work through tremendously difficult issues. Sure, some of the theories they espouse I might not fully agree with. Sure, their proposed remedies I don't always think will be effective. I might even interpret certain of the mircoragressions they report differently than they interpret them. But, as I white man. I know for fact that some students do not like African-Americans, and that they do things to demean African-Americans or to make them feel unwelcome on campus. I know for a fact that at least some university administrators would rather not deal with race issues if they can avoid them. Since I know these circumstances to be true, it makes sense for me to believe the core of the reports these students make, and to be supportive of their attempts to remedy these circumstances even if their approaches are provisional and imperfect.
3
This statement, by the PhD student stood out the most for me:
"Students ... held a teach-in over racist comments one of their white professors had made. He said Black Lives Matter should focus on black-on-black crime rather than police brutality... First and foremost, it’s empirically inaccurate for someone with a Ph.D. who studies vulnerable communities to assert such a thing."
Empirically inaccurate to assert such a thing? What does that even mean? Empirically, many more Black people lose their lives to other Black people (as do whites - but blacks at a much higher rate). And asserting a fact is now racist. You may disagree what the focus should be but calling someone out for having a different opinion, based on facts, is as racist - and fascist - as anyone can get.
"Students ... held a teach-in over racist comments one of their white professors had made. He said Black Lives Matter should focus on black-on-black crime rather than police brutality... First and foremost, it’s empirically inaccurate for someone with a Ph.D. who studies vulnerable communities to assert such a thing."
Empirically inaccurate to assert such a thing? What does that even mean? Empirically, many more Black people lose their lives to other Black people (as do whites - but blacks at a much higher rate). And asserting a fact is now racist. You may disagree what the focus should be but calling someone out for having a different opinion, based on facts, is as racist - and fascist - as anyone can get.
20
Fact check: whites are murdered most often by other whites.
3
How wonderful that these activists are problem solving in ways that may bring change in the long haul. How different from the protesters who took over the Malheur Refuge toting demands and guns while ignoring that we all need others to exist, especially those that sell goods like cattle. We do not live in a vaccum. Campuses have been the opportunity to test ideas and beliefs since Plato's time. I applaud the young people for trying. When we learn to communicate non violently all benefit !
9
I know that I've been given a lot of privileges I didn't do anything myself to earn, skin color being one of them. Many of the privileges I enjoy I'm not even aware of enjoying, because I've not experienced what it's like to live as someone other than myself. But it's important to me to understand what things I take for granted, and to understand what the lives of my friends are like. That's why stories like the ones these students are sharing are so important to me, and why I'm glad they're sharing them.
Some commenters have protested that everyone experiences microaggressions, so what's the big deal? But I think it's naive for us to believe that there aren't some of us who predictably deal with microaggressions that are consistently more intense or frequent, and of course that's not fair and of course I want to know about it and understand why this happens. To acknowledge this truth does not diminish or threaten my own recognition of the things I too have had to fight to earn. It simply casts them in a more complex perspective, and one that I think is more true.
These students aren't dumb. They know that speaking up on this topic is likely to earn them labels like "whiny" or "lazy." It takes bravery to do what they're doing.
Some commenters have protested that everyone experiences microaggressions, so what's the big deal? But I think it's naive for us to believe that there aren't some of us who predictably deal with microaggressions that are consistently more intense or frequent, and of course that's not fair and of course I want to know about it and understand why this happens. To acknowledge this truth does not diminish or threaten my own recognition of the things I too have had to fight to earn. It simply casts them in a more complex perspective, and one that I think is more true.
These students aren't dumb. They know that speaking up on this topic is likely to earn them labels like "whiny" or "lazy." It takes bravery to do what they're doing.
8
I love the the desire to want to impact things of some of these students but cringe at the naiveness of them at the same time. I am at odd with some of the the things that these "activitist" say. For instance, when Mr. Turner says that if five or more Blacks gather together the police show up, I assume that would mean there are no fraternities, sororities or organizations that have majority memberships of Africans Americas. I have to believe and maybe I'm wrong but such a frequent occurrence would be documented and put online by now for the world to see.
Regarding Ms. Storm, the video of the events she describe is the very opposite of what you said occurred at the homecoming parade with the president in the car.
The seemingly shock of Ms. Bennett regarding the U. of Alabama seems odd to me being that she is from Atlanta. The downtown area of Atlanta is an ocean of homeless Black men wondering the streets forcing everyone off the sidewalks. Also, to me, the words "middle class" is a micro-aggression. The use of "poltical connections" speaks to how deeply entrenched she is in that concept and its perpetuation of such a hostile construct. Just saying.
Regarding Ms. Storm, the video of the events she describe is the very opposite of what you said occurred at the homecoming parade with the president in the car.
The seemingly shock of Ms. Bennett regarding the U. of Alabama seems odd to me being that she is from Atlanta. The downtown area of Atlanta is an ocean of homeless Black men wondering the streets forcing everyone off the sidewalks. Also, to me, the words "middle class" is a micro-aggression. The use of "poltical connections" speaks to how deeply entrenched she is in that concept and its perpetuation of such a hostile construct. Just saying.
13
Maybe they should try studying.
13
Why are you assuming they don't study?
Have you ever been a student taking rigorous courses? many don't even have time to eat and sleep doing homework, projects, papers, research, much less engaging in full time politician-in-training activities.
2
LIke the 60's these are precisely the people we should ignore. If we had, this nation would be a better place for all. Like our Community Organizer in Chief, these are the dividers, the true racists and bigots and the very ones who keep us from unifying as a nation. With them, just like their 60's predecessors, we will have the world of hyphenated names, racial politics and group think. Pay them no heed.
6
Having written quite a number of rather large tuition checks, at the full price, with savings I had painfully put aside each month from the day each of my children were born, it just now occurs to me that within that so-called full price tuition, I was probably paying enough tuition for at least one other person, plus extra for professors' summers off, and their sabbatical every 7 years too, even while my children were rejected from some colleges while so-called minorities got in with lower grades and lower SAT scores etc.
So, on the whole, it rather feels like, despite hard work, and paying full price, we are getting the shorter end of the stick, and paying for others to get a free ride with more privileges.
Doesn't feel fair, really.
Do these people demanding even more, and more, have two parents? Did my tax dollars pay their mothers' welfare, while their fathers wandered off without any accountability. How much of these peoples' anger is displaced, and should really be directed at the fathers who abandoned them, and the mothers who never modeled any dignity or gave them any sense of self worth?
Our families came to America after slavery had already been abolished for many decades. Why am I still having to pay retribution for that?
What a mess.
This is why the white middle class feels betrayed by its government.
Where is the personal accountability? Why is it always just blame the white guy for everything? And I voted for Obama twice.
So, on the whole, it rather feels like, despite hard work, and paying full price, we are getting the shorter end of the stick, and paying for others to get a free ride with more privileges.
Doesn't feel fair, really.
Do these people demanding even more, and more, have two parents? Did my tax dollars pay their mothers' welfare, while their fathers wandered off without any accountability. How much of these peoples' anger is displaced, and should really be directed at the fathers who abandoned them, and the mothers who never modeled any dignity or gave them any sense of self worth?
Our families came to America after slavery had already been abolished for many decades. Why am I still having to pay retribution for that?
What a mess.
This is why the white middle class feels betrayed by its government.
Where is the personal accountability? Why is it always just blame the white guy for everything? And I voted for Obama twice.
23
It's unfair to make assumptions about the families and academic achievements of students you haven't met, actually.
The majority of professors are adjuncts that are paid per course and do not receive benefits. When professors get time off they use that to plan their courses, write, and publish. What you're paying for in terms of tuition is designed to pad the salaries of administrators.
The majority of professors are adjuncts that are paid per course and do not receive benefits. When professors get time off they use that to plan their courses, write, and publish. What you're paying for in terms of tuition is designed to pad the salaries of administrators.
4
Ms. Bennet's story is horrible. She is telling us about fundamental assaults on human dignity by Southern frat boys running amok in their version of the 18th century. I hope UA is reading this and will do something about it. I also thank Ms. Bennet for her courage and hope she recognizes that the racists constitute a small, inbred and vanishing, cohort that rages, rages against the dying of their light.
1
I just hope all of these students will continue to be able to express their views.
But I don't know if that will be the case. Some of them see it as a matter of social justice to silence others, and they have the support of quite a few journalists, and quite a few people in the Obama administration, particularly the US Department of Education Office of Civil Rights, which is pressuring colleges to censor students and deny due process using methods like the infamous "Dear Colleague" letter than sidestepped basic legal requirements.
But I don't know if that will be the case. Some of them see it as a matter of social justice to silence others, and they have the support of quite a few journalists, and quite a few people in the Obama administration, particularly the US Department of Education Office of Civil Rights, which is pressuring colleges to censor students and deny due process using methods like the infamous "Dear Colleague" letter than sidestepped basic legal requirements.
7
In reading this article and several of the comments, I think the vast majority if the readers think these students are bogus in there claims of racism. It does exist on college campuses, in the workforce, and in every fiber if this nation.
I agree that hard work and perseverance does pay off, however, it works easier for one group/class/race of people than it does for others.
If you are qualified and have the credentials, then you should get the chance at the opportunity. It should not be based on your race, ethnicity, gender. What it boils down to is getting the opportunity.
I give these students credit (regardless if their major) to stand up and protest for the injustice on college campuses and making the professors and the administration accountable for their comments and actions.
If you are not in the part of a "protected class" per se, then you will never understand how it feels to be discriminated against.
This is why diversity training (race, gender, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation) need to be addressed on all fore fronts.
Nothing will change unless these issues are not discussed.
I agree that hard work and perseverance does pay off, however, it works easier for one group/class/race of people than it does for others.
If you are qualified and have the credentials, then you should get the chance at the opportunity. It should not be based on your race, ethnicity, gender. What it boils down to is getting the opportunity.
I give these students credit (regardless if their major) to stand up and protest for the injustice on college campuses and making the professors and the administration accountable for their comments and actions.
If you are not in the part of a "protected class" per se, then you will never understand how it feels to be discriminated against.
This is why diversity training (race, gender, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation) need to be addressed on all fore fronts.
Nothing will change unless these issues are not discussed.
4
These are really privileged students. Cream of the crop as they say. Most people would give their eye teeth no matter their race or color to go to a school like Yale. If I were so fortunate, I would be focusing on the wonderful world of learning at a world-class institution than haggling about nasty people who treat me poorly or departments with faculty who "don't look like me". Someone is harassing and insulting you? Stop them right in their tracks. Defend yourself and your dignity for yourself. It would do you wonders to correct these people, one on one. Deal with this instead of running to the Administration to change and accommodate your comfort zone. Life is filled with nasty people and situations and yes, racism. Why can't this generation--no matter where they are coming from--get this and muster the character to grow up?
8
Making demands, protesting, negotiating--college students have been doing all this for a long, long time. And we should want them to. Sure, there is bound to be some youthful hubris on display (anyone not guilty of such in their own youth is forgetful, and/or lying) but there is also much thought-provoking dialogue to be found in the voices here. They don't all agree; they are far from monolithic. These students are doing what intelligent young people everywhere should be doing, which is thinking critically and questioning the status quo. That the bulk of commenters, here and elsewhere, can't abide this conversation speaks volumes about their own deeply ingrained racism. But that's to be expected as well. Any and all progress we have made on social issues in this country is owed to people speaking uncomfortable truths at inconvenient times. The intended audience has never been too thrilled...
1
Am I going to have to read these disbelieving comments every time an article focusing on some young people's (who happen to be black) concerns is published? Obviously, all black people (myself included) do not agree with these protestors or various Black Lives Matter movements; black opinion is wide and varied. But, I think it is important to hear what these young people have to say, even if life will probably alter some of their stances. I am really disappointed, but not surprised at the NYT commentariat. The same people that defend Bernie Sanders to the teeth (isn't his whole schtick is "us against them"?) will question and badger people who's experiences they don't understand. Black people are treated differently--worse--in this country than white people, generally. Few white people would ever trade places with a black person. So, instead of denying or minimizing concerns, spend this month learning something.
5
Mr. Woods' comment seems to display how easy it is for just about anyone to slip into compartmentalized, and so, self-defeating modes of reasoning. I suspect most Sanders supporters, and members of the "NYT commentariat" will easily recognize, in this comment, an unfair and inaccurate characterization of their tribe, where the sins of some are used to paint the rest. Wasn't that the problem in the first place?
But also, to be fair to all, and to acknowledge Mr. Woods pain at reading so many harmful comments, I suspect that many of the same folks who he has just labeled through distorting lenses don't and won't appreciate the lesson (re: that it is easy it is to slip into unfair stereotyping). Instead of trying to dislodge their own hastily concluded negative stereotypes that harm others, and that close doors to friendship, they'll only return the favor.
If we can vanquish tribalism, where the gaze tends to distort and gin up faults of those outside the tribe, while a double-standard applies to oneself, or those within the tribe - and focus on removing barriers to what could otherwise be fruitful friendships - we might make some progress.
But also, to be fair to all, and to acknowledge Mr. Woods pain at reading so many harmful comments, I suspect that many of the same folks who he has just labeled through distorting lenses don't and won't appreciate the lesson (re: that it is easy it is to slip into unfair stereotyping). Instead of trying to dislodge their own hastily concluded negative stereotypes that harm others, and that close doors to friendship, they'll only return the favor.
If we can vanquish tribalism, where the gaze tends to distort and gin up faults of those outside the tribe, while a double-standard applies to oneself, or those within the tribe - and focus on removing barriers to what could otherwise be fruitful friendships - we might make some progress.
2
I attended college to learn from the professors, and learn how to become productive, and be ready to build on and use what I learn from the professors. and be compensated in the future for that productivity, and that is what being a student means. If a student wants to be an "activist", that is OK, but don't interfere with my getting an education, my positive experience and my goals. Majoring in "African-American studies", and squandering education opportunity on making everyone understand that you are a victim, complaining and expecting to be immediately hired after graduation with a high salary makes no sense.
38
Any student in college who thinks they are having a rough time of it or whatever should take a year off and try and join the Peace Corp or some other similar organization. Putting your time into helping others with much less may possibly be the experience we all need at one time or another in our lives. It may open the eyes of young Americans if they are sent abroad to a third world village with real serious life problems. What better place and people to put their energy and focus upon, to learn about others and ultimately one's self. You often get what you give in life.
25
Respect is earned, not demanded. It usually happens when you grow up.
College is a place to grow up. Go to class, study hard, volunteer, graduate, get a job, help others, get married, have children, be a good parent, teach your children to be respectful and to appreciate all of the freedoms and opportunities this great country offers.
That's when you gain self respect and the respect of others. You don't gain either by spending precious academic time whining and demanding a "safe zone" where your feelings won't be hurt.
College is a place to grow up. Go to class, study hard, volunteer, graduate, get a job, help others, get married, have children, be a good parent, teach your children to be respectful and to appreciate all of the freedoms and opportunities this great country offers.
That's when you gain self respect and the respect of others. You don't gain either by spending precious academic time whining and demanding a "safe zone" where your feelings won't be hurt.
35
"There’s a dearth of voices of women of color in the Yale theater community. Black women are at the bottom of the totem pole."
2013 Oscar Winner Lupita Nyong'o went to the Yale School of Drama and won the Herschel Williams Prize for "acting students with outstanding ability." What is the bottom of the totem pole to which you are referring?
2013 Oscar Winner Lupita Nyong'o went to the Yale School of Drama and won the Herschel Williams Prize for "acting students with outstanding ability." What is the bottom of the totem pole to which you are referring?
31
Quit demanding stuff and actually ask to engage in conversations with views on all sides and people might listen more and think thoughtfully about what you're saying.
31
The level of vitriol manifested in many of the comments is truly astonishing. It really doesn't take that much effort to try to understand how racism and discrimination affects people. Imagine this: two individuals, equal in everything except race (skin color, ethnicity). When they are studious, enterprising, law abiding, and hard-working, one of them is still going to be followed around by clerks at retail stores, while the other one will never (or hardly ever) be followed. One of them is going to experience a higher incidence of their work being questioned, doubted, undermined.
One of them is going to be stopped by the police for no reason (made up reason) at all many times more than the other. Realtors will steer him away from better neighborhoods; landlords will lie and say there are no vacancies.
In every sphere, the micro-aggressions he'll have to deal with on a daily basis will be much more higher than the other fellow, all because of the color of his skin.
When we talk about the less examplary individuals, the consequences of wrong-doing for one are going to be much more harsher than the other one for the exact same (mis)behavior, based on the color of his skin, or ethnicity.
A question: everything else being equal, shouldn't we all (Blacks, Latinos, Asians, Whites, et all) be able to function in society without being discriminated against based on skin color, etnicity, gender, or sexual orientation? That's the real question/issue.
One of them is going to be stopped by the police for no reason (made up reason) at all many times more than the other. Realtors will steer him away from better neighborhoods; landlords will lie and say there are no vacancies.
In every sphere, the micro-aggressions he'll have to deal with on a daily basis will be much more higher than the other fellow, all because of the color of his skin.
When we talk about the less examplary individuals, the consequences of wrong-doing for one are going to be much more harsher than the other one for the exact same (mis)behavior, based on the color of his skin, or ethnicity.
A question: everything else being equal, shouldn't we all (Blacks, Latinos, Asians, Whites, et all) be able to function in society without being discriminated against based on skin color, etnicity, gender, or sexual orientation? That's the real question/issue.
12
It's not prejudice, it's a reflection of the reality we see every day. Fair or not.
If 1/4 of all people wearing purple T-shirts had been felons, you would react when seeing a person in purple T-shirt.
If 1/4 of all people wearing purple T-shirts had been felons, you would react when seeing a person in purple T-shirt.
20
Luis, you explained the issue very clearly in terms anyone should be able to understand. I agree with you completely. What I don't agree with is viewing these issues through the lens of the particular ideology of Critical Race Theory, which is the ideology into which many of the student protesters have been indoctrinated. Surely, most of them never heard of that ideology until they got to Yale or other universities, in which that ideology pervades their ethnic and gender studies courses, or which was enforced upon them through the general campus environment of political correctness (including via wide-spread requirements for diversity training).
5
Right. And all of that reacting might cause people in purple t-shirts to be arrested and convicted at a disproportionate rate, because we're all so busy reacting to them that we tend not to notice when people in green or orange t-shirts commit crimes. And it stands to reason if your two suspects are a guy in green and a guy in purple, it's probably the second guy - I mean, so many of them are felons already! That's just the reality we live in, fair or not.
So we should probably keep doing what we're doing and not discuss the circular nature of this logic. They brought it on themselves.
So we should probably keep doing what we're doing and not discuss the circular nature of this logic. They brought it on themselves.
1
70% of black children are born to poor single and uneducated mothers and absent fathers, thus perpetuating the achievement gap and condemning their children to a life of poverty. As a teacher in the South Bronx, I witness the consequences of these statistics every day. These children grow up lacking a stable family structure and cognitive stimulation necessary for language development and exposure to an intellectually enriching environment. I see them on the bus and subway, with vacant stares in their eyes as their mothers ignore them because they are listening to their earbuds rather than talking to them. So-called white privilege does not force these women to have children they can't raise, nor their fathers to abandon them. These activists should focus their energy on reducing theses numbers rather than wasting their time on grievances against symbols or other perceived affronts.
77
notice the majors of most of these activist, waste of time and money
41
What terrific students, what thoughtful discussions. Thanks for undertaking these conversations, NYT.
7
Kudos to Josh for majoring in engineering at Princeton. Brylan is on the right track but should take the time he spends on organizing and try for a real CS degree. The others are just wasting precious educational opportunities that would better position them to make lifelong contributions to their communities. Actually, there aren't a dearth of voices of women of color at Yale. There are a dearth of women of color in STEM fields. Eliminate students of South and East Asian descent and that dearth becomes a very small number indeed.
21
Reading the comments here I think we will lick global warming before there's much improvement regarding what these young people are fighting for.
On a side note, I dislike people who pose with the "tough guy" look. It's not racism; I disliked the photos in the 1950s of white teenage toughs. This whole "whataya gonna do for me" is not good salesmanship. Sorry -- salespersonship.
On a side note, I dislike people who pose with the "tough guy" look. It's not racism; I disliked the photos in the 1950s of white teenage toughs. This whole "whataya gonna do for me" is not good salesmanship. Sorry -- salespersonship.
13
I'm so mortified at the comments from what I'm certain are fellow white people below. The lack of perspective, the lack of self-awareness, the abject racism prevalent in most of them speaks volumes. If you wonder why these bright students are putting their energy into their activism, one need only to read through these comments to know we've got A LOT of work to do. Bravo to these brave, hardworking young men and women for using their education for so much more than securing a lucrative future or partying it up with their dudebros on Instagram. Keep on keepin' on.
18
I've been shot at and mugged and punched in the head by Blacks. But I still think they're generally good people! In fact, no amount of physical violence could make me think poorly of them! I especially like the one with his hands up in the Don't Shoot pose! I think his heart is better than most people's because he's sensitive to people who have been treated unfairly, which is a sign of goodness.
6
Sigh. I just feel like the true test comes in the "real" world. I am a white female and graduated from college 25 years ago. I remember having time to be angry about injustice (not just racial but all types) and acting on that anger in a constructive way. Protests at a liberal University are one thing, but in my experience the real world can hit like a ton of bricks. I am wondering how many of these young people will be true activists in 10 years.
Sometimes I wish I had a trust fund so I could address issues like racism and make a difference in a world. But instead I work 10-12 hours a day and come home tired. I haven't found a way to make a living at being an activist/writer. In my experience, you really have to do without a lot. I definitely contribute both time and effort when I can but so much of my time is usurped with just survival. I pray these young people have the same drive to change the world in 15 or 20 years. IMO, longevity is the true test.
Sometimes I wish I had a trust fund so I could address issues like racism and make a difference in a world. But instead I work 10-12 hours a day and come home tired. I haven't found a way to make a living at being an activist/writer. In my experience, you really have to do without a lot. I definitely contribute both time and effort when I can but so much of my time is usurped with just survival. I pray these young people have the same drive to change the world in 15 or 20 years. IMO, longevity is the true test.
15
The real fight on university campuses should be about student debt. You can never be free with 100K in student loans at 7% interest.
24
But it doesn't have to be either/or. There is much good work to be done, each person can chip away at the causes that speak to her or him the most.
4
Totally agree.
1
Racists are a bunch of suckers. The global billionaires that control our government and the world economy don't care at all about race. They only care about money and power. If you can't affect their situation, you don't exist.
For them, racism is a tool of control. Keep the poor whites blaming the Mexicans for unemployment, welfare queens for stealing all the money, Muslims for imposing Sharia law...
Meanwhile you work harder and they take the profit.
Race, gender, ethnicity, religion, class (always divide the working class between middle and poor), etc. are not predictors of an individual's integrity, work ethic, etc. Every individual has good and bad days, good and bad habits.
I have more understanding of racism coming from traditional scapegoats like blacks. 400 years of slavery (ripped from home, families constantly shredded, education punished...) followed by 100 years of Jim Crow, and more decades of racism, hurts. I still bear the psychological scars of English oppression of the Irish and it wasn't nearly as bad or recent.
If you are white, worry about white on white crime and white terrorists, who are far more prevalent than Muslim terrorists.
But in the big picture, we are at a critical point in history. Megolomaniac billionaires have collected large portions of the world's wealth and power onto themselves. They want to use debt to make us all serfs. We need to unify the Movement of Movements and evolve society.
Peace.
For them, racism is a tool of control. Keep the poor whites blaming the Mexicans for unemployment, welfare queens for stealing all the money, Muslims for imposing Sharia law...
Meanwhile you work harder and they take the profit.
Race, gender, ethnicity, religion, class (always divide the working class between middle and poor), etc. are not predictors of an individual's integrity, work ethic, etc. Every individual has good and bad days, good and bad habits.
I have more understanding of racism coming from traditional scapegoats like blacks. 400 years of slavery (ripped from home, families constantly shredded, education punished...) followed by 100 years of Jim Crow, and more decades of racism, hurts. I still bear the psychological scars of English oppression of the Irish and it wasn't nearly as bad or recent.
If you are white, worry about white on white crime and white terrorists, who are far more prevalent than Muslim terrorists.
But in the big picture, we are at a critical point in history. Megolomaniac billionaires have collected large portions of the world's wealth and power onto themselves. They want to use debt to make us all serfs. We need to unify the Movement of Movements and evolve society.
Peace.
14
WOW! Brylan - you are the man! You have learned the one lesson that can defeat all the microagressions (what a laughable term) that seem to sidetrack all these other students.
Sticks and stones may break your bones but names will never hurt you.
Dear Educrats: can we please go back to teaching kids this simple lesson instead of teaching them to take maximum offense of every perceived slight?
Sticks and stones may break your bones but names will never hurt you.
Dear Educrats: can we please go back to teaching kids this simple lesson instead of teaching them to take maximum offense of every perceived slight?
26
The best way to empower minority groups is arguably for colleges to set them up for success by helping minority students secure decent, family wage jobs in the real world once they graduate.
A shame then, that so many students of color have been lured into "____ studies" programs, which essentially consist only of ideological brainwashing and do nothing to help students secure a real job outside of academia.
A shame then, that so many students of color have been lured into "____ studies" programs, which essentially consist only of ideological brainwashing and do nothing to help students secure a real job outside of academia.
30
I found the diversity of each student's point of view very interesting, and it reinforced for me that each individual (whether in the minority or majority) has a unique experience. There is no one right answer for how to handle racism, and whether you believe it's currently a problem or not is probably hugely influenced by your individual life history.
Though I agree with those who have suggested that sometimes the particular type of activism that seems to be embraced by today's young people seems to be aimed at wiping out almost anything that could be deemed offensive (which in my opinion would also diminish our opportunities to learn from our past mistakes as a society), I also agree that we continue to really struggle with problematic biases and beliefs. Tough to see these biases reflected even in the comments of the NYT.
Though I agree with those who have suggested that sometimes the particular type of activism that seems to be embraced by today's young people seems to be aimed at wiping out almost anything that could be deemed offensive (which in my opinion would also diminish our opportunities to learn from our past mistakes as a society), I also agree that we continue to really struggle with problematic biases and beliefs. Tough to see these biases reflected even in the comments of the NYT.
25
If you really think people are mistaken, or you are curious about why it is they feel or believe what they do, why don't you reach out and have a conversation with someone who thinks differently than you sometime? It is really easy to go on a comment forum and talk about that time you were mugged (and there for how dare these students talk about racism) or that you noted that not all students at your expensive college were as well educated as you (and therefore how dare these students of color think they have a right to shape their academic environment) or observe that basically the entire world is sh*t so how dare these students expect more.
We have some young people who are engaged politically, organizing for such shocking things as more diverse faculty, and we have some adults with nothing better to do than to bash them with comments. These comments are shameful. You don't find what these young people are fighting for to be worthwhile? Great - who freakin asked you? They have the right to organize and work for change. Maybe you don't agree with specific tactics or content, but guess what - they are mostly quite YOUNG. They are learning. They are damn sure doing more with their college education than I ever did. Maybe some of you commenters should stop and ask yourselves exactly what it is about people organizing, speaking up instead of gritting their teeth, and trying to make the world better that frightens or angers or upsets you so much.
We have some young people who are engaged politically, organizing for such shocking things as more diverse faculty, and we have some adults with nothing better to do than to bash them with comments. These comments are shameful. You don't find what these young people are fighting for to be worthwhile? Great - who freakin asked you? They have the right to organize and work for change. Maybe you don't agree with specific tactics or content, but guess what - they are mostly quite YOUNG. They are learning. They are damn sure doing more with their college education than I ever did. Maybe some of you commenters should stop and ask yourselves exactly what it is about people organizing, speaking up instead of gritting their teeth, and trying to make the world better that frightens or angers or upsets you so much.
8
Thank you, Ada, I completely agree.
1
How can you have a conversation with someone that thinks you should lose your job or your right to an education for saying something they find offensive, and who has a militant group of protestors who agree with them, a federal bureaucracy who supports them, and a supine college administration who will give in to them?
6
"We want to see more black faculty. We want more black psychologists and mental health care officials. ..."
If you want to have more black faculty through affirmative action you are simply perpetuating the problem: having incompetent people who will feel perpetually aggrieved and disrespected. Universities, banks and federal institutions are bending over backwards to take in black applicants - yet if you look at STEM fields, these are virtually nonexistent. Ethnic studies, sociology, political science, arts ...don;t require as much work and are easy to get in through affirmative action.
The best way to get ahead and become faculty yourselves is to excel at your studies. Don;t ask for special treatment and your fellow students will respect you. You will be surprised how quickly the resentment over your (perceived) advantages will fade once you are the top dog in the Organic Chemistry class.
If you want to have more black faculty through affirmative action you are simply perpetuating the problem: having incompetent people who will feel perpetually aggrieved and disrespected. Universities, banks and federal institutions are bending over backwards to take in black applicants - yet if you look at STEM fields, these are virtually nonexistent. Ethnic studies, sociology, political science, arts ...don;t require as much work and are easy to get in through affirmative action.
The best way to get ahead and become faculty yourselves is to excel at your studies. Don;t ask for special treatment and your fellow students will respect you. You will be surprised how quickly the resentment over your (perceived) advantages will fade once you are the top dog in the Organic Chemistry class.
37
"We want to see more black faculty. We want more black psychologists and mental health care officials. ..."
Then do not major in any field that ends with the word '...Studies'.
Then do not major in any field that ends with the word '...Studies'.
30
"“Black women are at the bottom of the totem pole. When you free women of color, you free everyone.” — Nailah Harper-Malveaux"
What a culturally insensitive remark, insulting to all native Americans! For shame.
What a culturally insensitive remark, insulting to all native Americans! For shame.
32
" the bottom of the totem pole"...I believe that is a micro-aggression and needs to be punished. Pff to re-eduation camp
1
"What We Want"....why not what can you offer....
Why do those who associate as progressive and liberals tend to always want to take something or want something from others, but offer vey little.....
Why do those who associate as progressive and liberals tend to always want to take something or want something from others, but offer vey little.....
20
The complaint about insensitive questions in class disturbs me. People are not born with complete understanding of history and the problems that others have faced. Class should be a chance for all the students to learn and grow, and how are they going to do that if we are so sensitive that we can't talk to those who are different from us.
I first came to Japan in the late 1970s, and I had know idea what kind of country it would be before I got here. I was even worried about whether they would have electricity. I am sure I asked (and was asked) a lot of insensitive questions, but it has been a great learning experience I would never have gotten at home.
Questions should only be condemned if they are deliberately offensive. Ignorance should be forgiven and the offender should be politely educated.
I first came to Japan in the late 1970s, and I had know idea what kind of country it would be before I got here. I was even worried about whether they would have electricity. I am sure I asked (and was asked) a lot of insensitive questions, but it has been a great learning experience I would never have gotten at home.
Questions should only be condemned if they are deliberately offensive. Ignorance should be forgiven and the offender should be politely educated.
34
I think it's overly charitable to assume a student turning to a black classmate and asking if all black people eat collared greens is simply naive and ignorant. If a child asks that question, sure. But a college student should have enough critical thinking skills to work that one out on their own. Do all white people eat any particular food? Nope. So it stands to reason that all black people don't, either. Assuming that they would is treating them like they're aliens rather than people.
I'm a white person, and I get this. If nothing else, it's just incredibly rude. A classmate of a different race is there to learn, too - not to be an ambassador of their race, or field ludicrous questions pertaining to it. I would be dismayed if a male classmate asked me about menstrual cycles because periods were mentioned in a reading assignment - and that would be a uniquely bizarre and unwelcome situation, whereas the issues discussed here are a regular part of these students' lives.
I'm a white person, and I get this. If nothing else, it's just incredibly rude. A classmate of a different race is there to learn, too - not to be an ambassador of their race, or field ludicrous questions pertaining to it. I would be dismayed if a male classmate asked me about menstrual cycles because periods were mentioned in a reading assignment - and that would be a uniquely bizarre and unwelcome situation, whereas the issues discussed here are a regular part of these students' lives.
2
Spend more time improving yourself and less time being a social justice warrior.
37
Does David C. Turner III have his hands up in order to 'honor' the falsehood that Michael Brown had his hands up when he was shot?
To base your philosophy of life on a lie is never a good thing, as once you go down that road, nothing else you say is worth paying attention to.
To base your philosophy of life on a lie is never a good thing, as once you go down that road, nothing else you say is worth paying attention to.
38
By looking at poses and how hungry they were for tweets, even competing with the Paris shootings on the news channels, I think it's commercial on the one hand and political-regressive on the other. In a way though, with this behavior, they are justifying segregation (they are actually demanding it).
"You either change and accept my superiority and your inferiority and guilt, or I'll walk away in my own safe space". Age groups?
"You either change and accept my superiority and your inferiority and guilt, or I'll walk away in my own safe space". Age groups?
25
To excuse wilson for his racism - because other historical figures were racist - is all too typical. Including Lincoln in the discussion seems to be really reaching - considering his metamorphosis - his accomplishments - and his assassination for those accomplishments - actually mentioning wilson and Lincoln in the same breath is unacceptable. Finally, white people give themselves way too much credit for being a liberal.
3
Wilson was pretty accomplished, too.
Activism is important for the progress of any country and we have the lowest proportion of students getting involved in matters that are dear to them. A case in point- student loan. How many students have voiced their concern over this issue and raised awareness to change the system? We need ideas that nurture rather than 'bombastic' revolutionary slogans that seem fine but cannot work.The norm of the current political season. The students must confront racism, disparity in wages, housing, education opportunities and seek solutions by themselves and do not expect miracles from any of the politicians.
5
The manner in which racism is tackled in this country is NOT effective. Nothing shows that more than the depressing failure of the movement to advance at a time when, LGBT rights, as an example have skyrocketed forward. Why is that? Why can't African Americans get past the specter of racism?
I have a few suspicions as to why that is and they begin and end with economic and educational factors.
There is no denying we have hugely ingrained institutional racism. The current manner of tackling this is to denounce it loudly and I get that--and I think it helps. However, to solve it, we must see African Americans in position of power and influence and that won't happen until we figure out how to pull people up via education.
....and that education must extend beyond the ABCs and shine a light into the sorts of "success behaviors and factors" that whites intrinsically know and pass down to their young. Great exploration of these factors in Malcom Gladwell's book Outliers: The Science of Success
These young people are impressive and I wish them well. Remember that peaceful discourse and respectful challenging of assumptions carry much more weight than accusing people who are to blind to see their own foibles. Many people are racists without realizing it; broaden their horizons directly and firmly without alienating.
I am impressed with every one of you and wish you success.
I have a few suspicions as to why that is and they begin and end with economic and educational factors.
There is no denying we have hugely ingrained institutional racism. The current manner of tackling this is to denounce it loudly and I get that--and I think it helps. However, to solve it, we must see African Americans in position of power and influence and that won't happen until we figure out how to pull people up via education.
....and that education must extend beyond the ABCs and shine a light into the sorts of "success behaviors and factors" that whites intrinsically know and pass down to their young. Great exploration of these factors in Malcom Gladwell's book Outliers: The Science of Success
These young people are impressive and I wish them well. Remember that peaceful discourse and respectful challenging of assumptions carry much more weight than accusing people who are to blind to see their own foibles. Many people are racists without realizing it; broaden their horizons directly and firmly without alienating.
I am impressed with every one of you and wish you success.
6
Racism will never be eliminated by decree. It will not be eliminated by enacting laws. It will not be improved by closing bridges, blocking access to stores during the holiday shopping season, or by interrupting speeches of politicians. Race relations have come a long, long way since I was a child. Is there room for improvement, of course. I see more mixed marriages, mixed race children, mixed race BFF's every day. "Activism" and trying to force tolerance doesn't work, and only leads to anger. Hiring professors and administrators based upon the color of their skin is as racist as not hiring them based upon the color of their skin.
24
And how has racism come a long way? By doing all the very things you say don't work--sit-ins, blocking bridges, stopping trash pick up, boycotting buses, DISRUPTION. Just because we've come a long way doesn't mean we're there, mom.
5
This story makes me sad, so much anger, it seems like folks are looking for reasons to be hurt or oppressed, it's now a me too, or mine is the worse.
Very few people intend to or desire to hurt or oppress others.
How does one know when the n word is ok, we hear it every day in music and conversations used as a positive term. Is it ok if I am "black enough"?
Very few people intend to or desire to hurt or oppress others.
How does one know when the n word is ok, we hear it every day in music and conversations used as a positive term. Is it ok if I am "black enough"?
17
I am very proud of these young people -- very proud! And I greatly appreciate the column. As for the bulk of the comments that have characterized these young people as privileged or essentially whiners -- I did not expect any better, but it is always so very disappointing to see folks with white privilege so oblivious and with it so clearly displayed.
9
The phrase 'white privilege' is insensitive and offensive.
5
While in college I simply did not have time for this kind of nonsense. If there was a "machine" it had zero effect on me. I guess majors like "black studies" are just not that challenging leaving too much time, and I suspect not many employment prospects outside academia.
75
It sounds like the machine had more effect on you than you realize.
10
"The only way to save his life was to get Wolfe out of office." Actually, his life could have been equally saved had he simply given up his hunger strike. Don't try to pretend that a chosen political tactic is the same thing as an unwanted medical emergency.
62
Always depressing to see the implicit and explicit racism expressed by commenters in the NY Times, which most of the country thinks of as a newspaper by and for liberals.
28
I agree.
3
Always depressing to see that anyone who voices even mild criticism of the post-Ferguson movements will be tarred as "racist." The voices in this discussion may be black and white, but the argument itself admits of a huge gray area. There are some very thoughtful comments here, offering sensible and nuanced responses to these well-meaning young people. You should try reading some of them—you might grow as a person, even if it doesn't offer the instant gratification of smug superiority.
56
Yes. I was just thinking this when I came across your comment and felt a little less alone. Thanks.
2
If Mr. Donaldson's father has been in prison for most of his son's life, I wonder whether his mother raised him, whether she had help, and whether she might not deserve part of the "credit" he gives entirely to his father.
32
Excellent point.
5
It should be obvious that the "credit" he gives to his father is that he provided an example NOT to follow!
1
Is the concentration of these students in ethnically based majors and programs actually a form of self segregation? College is an opportunity to experience so much and to diversify oneself, yet they seem to be a sample of yet another generation of professional activist/protesters. Preparation for real success would enable them to do more for society or the group they "self-identify" with than a degree in navel gazing.
58
Only two of the profiled students are majoring/specializing in ethnic studies. Both those students are double majors (one in english, one in sociology). Sociology is literally "the study of human social relationships and institutions." Perhaps one of the best ways to service society is to understand the relationships and institutions it consists of. What are you really talking about? Your bias is showing.
8
activism may be important, but it's is way. way easier than studying mathematics, physics, or analytical philosophy. in general political activism is way to make yourself FEEL smart without actually being so. What would be really revolutionary is an African-American physics major.
I'm sure there's still some vestiges of racism, but statues and mascots are pathetic targets. studying the Civil Rights Movement is an easy A. Studying Renaissance literature is harder.
I'm sure there's still some vestiges of racism, but statues and mascots are pathetic targets. studying the Civil Rights Movement is an easy A. Studying Renaissance literature is harder.
63
One has to admire Josh Freeman. Instead of looking at whites as racists he is looking at the bigger picture of an open and free dialog.
Also he is pursuing a degree that will pay off for him and the family he will someday have. We need more like him in this country.
Also he is pursuing a degree that will pay off for him and the family he will someday have. We need more like him in this country.
42
Our universities have always served as the environment where social justice/change movements could reach critical mass.
As a late stage baby boomer (born in 1960) I suppose I was naïve to believe that even the basic civil rights who so many marched, were jailed, fought and died for in the 1960's and 1970's would have to be defended by a new generation of African Americans and their allies.
But I believe that no more.
Rather than sit idly by while they witness injustice, the young Americans profiled in this piece have done what Americans have done since we have identified ourselves as Americans (as opposed to British subjects), stand up and fight back against injustice perpetrated against them.
Those who are critical of Americans pushing back against injustice simply don't get what makes us who we are as a nation.
As a late stage baby boomer (born in 1960) I suppose I was naïve to believe that even the basic civil rights who so many marched, were jailed, fought and died for in the 1960's and 1970's would have to be defended by a new generation of African Americans and their allies.
But I believe that no more.
Rather than sit idly by while they witness injustice, the young Americans profiled in this piece have done what Americans have done since we have identified ourselves as Americans (as opposed to British subjects), stand up and fight back against injustice perpetrated against them.
Those who are critical of Americans pushing back against injustice simply don't get what makes us who we are as a nation.
14
In the 60's I witnessed intense civil liberty demonstration working for a period in DC. I recall rioting in 1968 and I saw black kids roaming downtown and I recall turning around on a street not far from the Capitol because I feared I might be a target if I proceeded forward. I thought it was wrong what they were doing, obviously. I thought Stokely was wrong but I thought what he was fighting for was right. I didn't think he was going about it the right way but I understood maybe to him it was the only way because the man wasn't listening to him or his followers. Then Martin was assassinated and I went off to Viet Nam. I came back home in 1970 and I don't recall any of the former demonstrative fervor happening. Of course, I'm not a Southern Black but I just wonder why has it taken 50 years to get back in gear against the man?
2
"After reading Paulo Freire’s “Pedagogy of the Oppressed” in 11th grade, I understood that education was part of a system to help reproduce oppression and oppressive contexts." - David Turner
This sounds like a self-fulfilling prophecy if there ever was one. The rest of the folks are downright naive. Why would you expect a school or people in a former Confederate state to treat people of color with absolute respect?
This sounds like a self-fulfilling prophecy if there ever was one. The rest of the folks are downright naive. Why would you expect a school or people in a former Confederate state to treat people of color with absolute respect?
7
Maybe because all people should be treated with respect?
3
Whites must understand that if these African-Americans say that they are different, you must agree. Also, if you say that they are different, you are racist. This is generally considered to be reasonable, for good reasons which of course must not be spelled out.
71
I don't think that these students will be offended or call you racist simply for saying that they each have a specific background and that this background informs how they are treated and how they perceive how they fit in society. They would probably be more likely to call you racist if you said, solely because they are African-American, that they do not deserve to attend the college that they are attending, or that they are dangerous, or that they are untrustworthy, or that they are uncivilized, et cet. In this regard, I guess they expect to be treated just about how every other American would like to be treated.
3
Brylan Donaldson seems to have many of the traits of a real leader.
3
Work hard, pay taxes, raise your kids right, obey legitimate authorities, don't walk around with a chip on your shoulder and you'll be just fine. Walk around like the world owes you something, carry hatred in your heart, engage in exactly the same type of stereotyping you decry, and will inherit the wind.
106
I don't think a single one of these young people said anything hateful, expressed any sense of entitlement, or engaged in stereotyping. And your clear insinuation that they are not now good people, nor are they going to be good people going forward is beyond insulting.
Also, sixty people agreeing with this ugly cheap shot is appalling.
Also, sixty people agreeing with this ugly cheap shot is appalling.
3
Thank you for these profiles NYT. I find in these young people much reason to be hopeful about the future of this country. No matter what the outcome of this year's election, the last few months have exposed much anger and distress in American society. People on both sides are right to be angry and feel extremely let down by their elected officials.
American society can look to the history of black struggle to learn how to challenge a political power structure whose number one clients are the 1%-ers that keep it in business. Nothing was granted to African Americans that generations hadn't fought for and sacrificed much, even lives. Wresting power from those who wield it now and establishing a truly democratic and compassionate society that takes care of its own is not going to be easy work. It is going to take a lot of hard work, time, sacrifice and experimenting with all kinds of ideas just like these students are doing.
Thank you students! Be the light your country and compatriots need you to be!
American society can look to the history of black struggle to learn how to challenge a political power structure whose number one clients are the 1%-ers that keep it in business. Nothing was granted to African Americans that generations hadn't fought for and sacrificed much, even lives. Wresting power from those who wield it now and establishing a truly democratic and compassionate society that takes care of its own is not going to be easy work. It is going to take a lot of hard work, time, sacrifice and experimenting with all kinds of ideas just like these students are doing.
Thank you students! Be the light your country and compatriots need you to be!
13
The shrill bleating of collegians is so exhausting. Do you want change? Get rich then donate money to your school.
42
I guess the idea of this piece is to get Professor (and defendant) Click, and her "muscle", out of people's minds.
19
I beleive we will never, EVER see the type of change most heartfelt people believe exists. It just cannot happen in this country. This is not to say that there are no good, generous, enlightened people across all spectrums who will work for the change, but until we examine what makes Racism the destructive force that it is and we begin to dismantle those institutions in our society that withhold power and access; until the multiple groups who live on the fringes of our racist society begin to use their buying and voting power effectively, then the change many wish to see will never come. I think if activists accept this then the platform from which they operate from will be more effective.
4
You have to earn respect. You cannot demand it. If you try to force people to like you or love you, they'll hate you more. This applies to everyone in life.
76
What an ignorant excuse--and one that reeks of privilege. Expecting blacks to be perfect 24/7 to "earn" the right to be treated as human beings is racist, period. Do you constantly expect whites to earn your august regard?
8
@ Deering
The world would be a better place if none of us ever heard the word 'privilege' ever again.
The world would be a better place if none of us ever heard the word 'privilege' ever again.
10
Deering you could not have twisted and exaggerated JXG's words any more if you had tried.
6
Major credit to Josh Freeman.
Not coincidentally the only student here not majoring in social studies/liberal arts.
Mr. Freeman, we need more young people like yourself. Please continue down your path of success with rigidity and resoluteness.
Not coincidentally the only student here not majoring in social studies/liberal arts.
Mr. Freeman, we need more young people like yourself. Please continue down your path of success with rigidity and resoluteness.
25
You might want to re-read the article again. Brylan Donaldson is a Junior majoring in IT.
2
My years at Cal, U of Chicago, and Columbia proved to me that I was one of the luckiest persons in the world just to BE at such places, and RELATIVELY SPEAKING had nothing to complain about at all -- but much to be thankful of. I will never forget coming home to Detroit after my freshman year at Columbia and riding a city bus. There in the back I saw a young man about my age whose eyes were on fire with rage. I remember thinking to myself -- this guy probably just "graduated" from a DPS high school, but can barely read or write much beyond his own name. I, on the otherhand, have the entire world as my oyster -- dramatized by the fact that my classmate is now in the White House! To the core of my being I felt the justice of that young man's rage -- or at least as I imagined it. I wish these privileged Blacks who have made their way to college were concerned for the persistent injustice perpetuated on those who they have left behind. But no. Most of them will get their degrees, move to the suburbs and raise their kids, without a thought of those truly disadvantaged souls left to rot in the crime-ridden ghetto's. What? I'm supposed to get out of sorts because some professor or roomate looked at you in the wrong way? Hardly.
85
Very insightful. I simply cannot respect "movements" that equate "microaggressions" such as having to walk by a statue with the injustices you describe here.
1
What ever happened with the black tape incident at Harvard Law? Didn't the Cambridge police open a hate crime investigation? Why has there been no accountability? Wouldn't the action at least violate the code of conduct?
3
Probably because it was another fake "race hate"incident....
13
Of course, they found the fingerprints to be from the Black plaintiffs themselves. They were the ones who put the tape up. So, naturally, they had to drop all publicity.
9
"I can't say that all white students are racist." Whew, sigh of relief.
Thank goodness for the Joshes.
Thank goodness for the Joshes.
52
Yes, all euro-americans are so glad to hear this. We thought we were Robert Mugabe incarnate.
30
Of these students, Mr. Donaldson, Mr. Freeman and Mr. Zuckerman are the voices of reason. Unlike the other students profiled, these men seek to improve race relations by bringing people together. They rightly believe that collaboration leads to mutual respect and true progress.
With the exception of those I pointed out, the young people in this piece practice passive activism. The passive activist demands change from others but takes no corrective action himself (yes, I'm aware of the microaggression perpetrated here by grammatical convention). These activists embrace the role of the victim; they blame their plight on external factors. Instead of looking inward for solutions, the passive activist "...(has) 11 demands..." or "...(releases) eight demands..." in order to force change upon others.
This kind of activism is not only ineffective, (attempting to control the behavior of others is not a solution), it's counterproductive due to the animosity it creates. That's why 'passive' falls short of fully describing today's racial activism; 'passive-aggressive' is a far better term. The combative nature of the 'demand-issuing' students in this piece, right or wrong, only feeds racial tension and bigotry.
Echoing Mr. Donaldson, we need more educators, not activists. Racial harmony will only happen when we acknowledge that collective peace starts with individual action. Instead of saying, "you need to do this", let's try "I will do this".
With the exception of those I pointed out, the young people in this piece practice passive activism. The passive activist demands change from others but takes no corrective action himself (yes, I'm aware of the microaggression perpetrated here by grammatical convention). These activists embrace the role of the victim; they blame their plight on external factors. Instead of looking inward for solutions, the passive activist "...(has) 11 demands..." or "...(releases) eight demands..." in order to force change upon others.
This kind of activism is not only ineffective, (attempting to control the behavior of others is not a solution), it's counterproductive due to the animosity it creates. That's why 'passive' falls short of fully describing today's racial activism; 'passive-aggressive' is a far better term. The combative nature of the 'demand-issuing' students in this piece, right or wrong, only feeds racial tension and bigotry.
Echoing Mr. Donaldson, we need more educators, not activists. Racial harmony will only happen when we acknowledge that collective peace starts with individual action. Instead of saying, "you need to do this", let's try "I will do this".
88
Sadly, most of the "activists" are engaged in majors that will provide employment only so long as the oppression olympics continue. Kudos to the Princeton Joshes and the Kansas Brylan for having the perspective to function in the real world.
Nailah, who has seemingly had a privileged existence to date, exemplifies the problem: she "identifies" as Indian and black, even though she is also Asian and Caucasian. So much more fashionable to identify as an "oppressed" group.
Nailah, who has seemingly had a privileged existence to date, exemplifies the problem: she "identifies" as Indian and black, even though she is also Asian and Caucasian. So much more fashionable to identify as an "oppressed" group.
126
Hello, I liked most of this article but found the University of Kansas section extremely disheartening. I have watched Rock Chalk Invisible Hawk do incredible work, and they have had a few small detractors--one of which is the TEAM group you featured.
Not only did TEAM provide you with false information, but they are also a small group that has nothing but criticize the methods of RCIH over social media without trying to accomplish anything themselves in the real world.
I would only ask that the writers consider, in the future, that in trying to get multiple perspectives on generalized national issues, you are creating one-sided stories of each individual case. This is not a sacrifice you should be making. I ask that you consider the damage you are doing to the movements on campuses where you're picking only the anti-activist perspective.
At KU, and I'm sure at Princeton, the activists on campus would have surely appreciated at the very least being consulted about the validity of their detractors' statements. Thank you for the article but please consider that RCIH is fighting real issues of systemic racism, and that by promoting their detractors you have damaged a critical movement on this campus.
Not only did TEAM provide you with false information, but they are also a small group that has nothing but criticize the methods of RCIH over social media without trying to accomplish anything themselves in the real world.
I would only ask that the writers consider, in the future, that in trying to get multiple perspectives on generalized national issues, you are creating one-sided stories of each individual case. This is not a sacrifice you should be making. I ask that you consider the damage you are doing to the movements on campuses where you're picking only the anti-activist perspective.
At KU, and I'm sure at Princeton, the activists on campus would have surely appreciated at the very least being consulted about the validity of their detractors' statements. Thank you for the article but please consider that RCIH is fighting real issues of systemic racism, and that by promoting their detractors you have damaged a critical movement on this campus.
10
Thirteen comments so far. Disheartening to see so many of them assail these kids and what they're doing, and then proceed to say things that confirm that their activism is just and necessary.
Going on about weaves, affirmative action students that can't read, anecdotes about crime, and more?
Really?!
More than clear that we're sure as hell not "post racial".
Shame on you folks.
To the young people interviewed, keep the faith, keep up the good fight, don't back down. You're the ones making America great right here and now.
Going on about weaves, affirmative action students that can't read, anecdotes about crime, and more?
Really?!
More than clear that we're sure as hell not "post racial".
Shame on you folks.
To the young people interviewed, keep the faith, keep up the good fight, don't back down. You're the ones making America great right here and now.
36
How in the world will we ever make progress towards a more equitable society when the students that are fighting for equal rights start off their story by declaring, "I am totally African-American."
Why don't we start the conversation by acknowledging that their is nothing metaphysically different between white and black people. In fact, we are all, in one way or another, African.
The modern student activist demands equal rights on the one hand, and on the other, they use language that only highlights differences that are nothing but societal constructs. Until they unify their message, progress will not be had.
@otherminds
Why don't we start the conversation by acknowledging that their is nothing metaphysically different between white and black people. In fact, we are all, in one way or another, African.
The modern student activist demands equal rights on the one hand, and on the other, they use language that only highlights differences that are nothing but societal constructs. Until they unify their message, progress will not be had.
@otherminds
103
No, progress towards a more equitable society occurs when people accept that people do not have to be the same in order to be entitled to equal protection under law. In fact, one of the most important values of the principle of equal protection under the law is that it applies to people of all very different backgrounds, and viewpoints.
2
As a student at the University of Kansas, I am incredibly saddened to see Donaldson's story told about being the activist who started TEAM. I stand as an ally to Rock Chalk Invisible Hawk. They are consistently fighting for students of color no matter how tired of it they are. Donaldson's narrative about the town hall meeting on race is just simply not true. TEAM and the students behind it and like them are playing respectability politics and further silencing students of color. Activism at KU is a story worth telling, but the real activists are Rock Chalk Invisible Hawk.
5
Why not elaborate and make your case here? I'd be interested to hear the other side of the story, and I'm sure other readers would be as well.
What is RCIH doing to effectively advance civil rights for students of color (ie. beyond merely expressing frustrations)? Did RCIH verbally abuse the chancellor, if so why how was this justifiable? Why is TEAM wrong to advocate for a respectful dialogue that the larger student body can empathize with?
As it stands, all you've done in your post is attack Mr. Donaldson's integrity and the NYT's professionalism. Dropping vogue terms of "silencing" and "respectability politics" without justification is ultimately just an attempt to 'silence' TEAM's opinions, is it not?
What is RCIH doing to effectively advance civil rights for students of color (ie. beyond merely expressing frustrations)? Did RCIH verbally abuse the chancellor, if so why how was this justifiable? Why is TEAM wrong to advocate for a respectful dialogue that the larger student body can empathize with?
As it stands, all you've done in your post is attack Mr. Donaldson's integrity and the NYT's professionalism. Dropping vogue terms of "silencing" and "respectability politics" without justification is ultimately just an attempt to 'silence' TEAM's opinions, is it not?
6
This generation of "activist" are no better than those they combat, Missouri was one example of this oppressive attitude.
8
This is a fascinating group of young people, all with different, important, and interesting things to say. Thanks for letting us hear from them.
21
especially the part where they blame euro-americans for all America and the world's ills.
42
I went to college with numerous Affirmative Action students.
They couldn't read. Let me say that again: THEY COULD NOT READ, and yet they were admitted to the same school I paid lots of money to attend.
I don't feel sorry for any student admitted to a college or university, black, white, Asian, Latino, whatever. You're doing just fine.
Some people simply need something to complain about...
They couldn't read. Let me say that again: THEY COULD NOT READ, and yet they were admitted to the same school I paid lots of money to attend.
I don't feel sorry for any student admitted to a college or university, black, white, Asian, Latino, whatever. You're doing just fine.
Some people simply need something to complain about...
89
I taught college for a number of years and I've got news for you: many of the non affirmative action students couldn't read very well, certainly not a level required for college-level work.
53
prw,
perhaps college acceptance rates are too high?
perhaps college acceptance rates are too high?
7
Yoda, they should be. The word is not to be mediocre, but to excel. We always need to aim high, not dumb things down to accommodate those without the character and strength to strive for the best instead of the easy way out.
3
Good luck to all of you.
Now is the time in your lives to push boundaries so long as you recognize that you may or may not be righteous in your cause, no matter what you believe. Or that your cause may or may not be completely righteous in and of itself. Life is more complicated than reducing everything to black and white.
None of us live in a vacuum. Blanket condemnations of any group will always affect those in the group who might be your allies if asked, might be neutral if ignored and who will be your enemy if attacked. To overcome the residual bias in our country, student activists will need allies both now and when they grow up to be adults and carry adult responsibilities.
If I were your father I'd encourage each of you to focus on achieving the life skills you need, but do not yet have, in order to make a success of yourself and become both the breadwinner and the role model for your family. Such advice won't change the world, only the part in which you and your family will choose to live.
Now is the time in your lives to push boundaries so long as you recognize that you may or may not be righteous in your cause, no matter what you believe. Or that your cause may or may not be completely righteous in and of itself. Life is more complicated than reducing everything to black and white.
None of us live in a vacuum. Blanket condemnations of any group will always affect those in the group who might be your allies if asked, might be neutral if ignored and who will be your enemy if attacked. To overcome the residual bias in our country, student activists will need allies both now and when they grow up to be adults and carry adult responsibilities.
If I were your father I'd encourage each of you to focus on achieving the life skills you need, but do not yet have, in order to make a success of yourself and become both the breadwinner and the role model for your family. Such advice won't change the world, only the part in which you and your family will choose to live.
12
These constant complaints about micro-aggressions against a particular skin color aren't going to work. Everyone has experienced 'microaggressions' because of sex, age, body type, accent, religion, native state, native country. It's part of living in a world with many different people and their histories.
Instead of their demonstrations and protests and self-obsessed whinings, they need to find some real post-racial work to do that would contribute to everyone, regardless of skin shade or background. Also, they might be thankful for being where and who they are.
Instead of their demonstrations and protests and self-obsessed whinings, they need to find some real post-racial work to do that would contribute to everyone, regardless of skin shade or background. Also, they might be thankful for being where and who they are.
170
Sharon, perhaps they can join Amnesty International and work toward condemning the many dictators "of color" (like Mugabe, Pol Pot or Idi Amin) who have killed in the millions?
26
Who are you to say these aggressions are "micro"? When the police can drag you from your car because you don't put out your cigarette, or shoot you and claim you went for your waistband, or simply pull you over again and again and again for no reason at all, you might understand hostilities to mean something much more significant.
6
@ Allison
No one (except you) is saying that being shot by the police is a 'micro-aggression', but that what students consider a 'micro-aggression' is complete nonsense.
No one (except you) is saying that being shot by the police is a 'micro-aggression', but that what students consider a 'micro-aggression' is complete nonsense.
10
continue the fight to be heard. $200 fine for a taillight not being bright enough? wow. we all need to be sure that if we are in positions of power to be conscious of being fair to everyone. we also should encourage our children to be professors, judges, lawyers, housing offices, police officers, CEOs or hiring managers to get more accepting people that make decisions that count.
7
As a student I was mugged twice. By people of color. If I were to bring this up and serve as "student activist" to reduce the amount of black-on-white crime on campus and society in general how would I be welcomed on campus?
147
My family has suffered two serious physical and psychological assaults. My sister in law was attacked and robbed by a black man at 9PM as she unlocked the door to her house. My nephew was attacked and robbed by two black men in late afternoon as he was walking toward his apartment building. Both of these good people were very strong supports of equal rights, AND STILL ARE, but are now very wary of young black men. Who could blame them? (Neither have since involved themselves in protests against black violence.)
80
My sister in law was attached and robbed by a white man at 9PM as she unlocked the door to her house. My nephew was attacked and robbed by two white men in the afternoon as he was walking toward his apartment buildling. Both are now very wary of white men. Who could blame them?
8
And that's the point. No one would.
6
I couldn't help but compare these stories to the student movements of the 1960's. What struck me is how idealistic these students are. The thread that runs through these stories is their desire for inclusion and to be fully integrated into their campus life. There's certainly nothing wrong with that. Rooting out the day to day racial bias on college campuses is long overdue and college administrators should have been in the lead on this issues years ago.
But one difference I note between then and now is how most of these protests were not linked to or driven by broader movements for racial and social justice that these students felt connected to. For example, we have been at war for 14 years, but no mention of that. For Black students I would think the role of the US military in Africa would be an issue of special importance. There are many separate movements that I'm sure draw their attention, gender equality and campus violence, environmental concerns and others. Leading with a race analysis is key to a better understanding of how these issues find particular expression in Black communities.
To be fair, these were limited interviews and a deeper sense of politics may be brewing but simply not pursued by this writer. But I hope these students are preparing themselves for headwinds that will be harder to navigate than micro aggressions in the workplace. At least they are learning about the importance of organizing and pushing for change, not simply waiting for it to happen
But one difference I note between then and now is how most of these protests were not linked to or driven by broader movements for racial and social justice that these students felt connected to. For example, we have been at war for 14 years, but no mention of that. For Black students I would think the role of the US military in Africa would be an issue of special importance. There are many separate movements that I'm sure draw their attention, gender equality and campus violence, environmental concerns and others. Leading with a race analysis is key to a better understanding of how these issues find particular expression in Black communities.
To be fair, these were limited interviews and a deeper sense of politics may be brewing but simply not pursued by this writer. But I hope these students are preparing themselves for headwinds that will be harder to navigate than micro aggressions in the workplace. At least they are learning about the importance of organizing and pushing for change, not simply waiting for it to happen
4
Wondering why US military involvement in Africa would have "special importance" to black students whose families have lived in the U.S. for generations.
13
Sounds like the opposite of idealistic--most are complaining about their own comfort on their campuses. Their demands are quite revealing.
57
Emma - because heritage is a point of pride and identify?
However, a big change in how the military might be viewed by college students is that today there is no draft. So, while people with limited options will still sign up for a career with the military, that is a dramatic difference from the days of school deferrals.
However, a big change in how the military might be viewed by college students is that today there is no draft. So, while people with limited options will still sign up for a career with the military, that is a dramatic difference from the days of school deferrals.
1
What one wants in America is to move into a society where it does not matter what appearance one adopts. The weaves and other affectations merely indicate a discomfort, to this observer, with being oneself, and the need to indemnify one's insecurity in our very transactional society by spending large sums of money to indicate that we want to be someone we're really not. Let's find a way to enable people of all backgrounds and origins to be comfortable in their own skins so they don't have to affect the exorbitant styles and fads imposed upon them, so that they can explore the places that their innate intellectual curiosity leads them to find.
5