Students discuss prejudices
by Chris Taylor, editor in chief

    NE Campus Union of Cultural Diversity (UCD) sponsored a forum on racial prejudice last month.

    Mediated by UCD president, Patreece Dade, the forum consisted of a panel of students and faculty discussing the subject of prejudice in front of an audience.

    UCD believed that after the recent terrorist attacks, there was a great need for communication between those of different backgrounds.

    The goal of the forum was to make students more knowledgeable, more aware and more accepting of others.

    The forum began with a short clip of the Rikki Lake Show, where the discussion centered on racism.

    The panel then discussed the causes of racism and effects of racial prejudice on society. Panel members recounted their own personal experiences with racism.

    Dr. Cordell Parker, NE department chair of communication arts and professor of speech, said, “To me the most important thing is to look at what a person is on the inside.

    “Most differences don’t make a difference,” he said.

Lori Jowell, assistant professor of sociology, thinks that students should “learn about and acknowledge our differences.”

Jowell also warned that people can hide racism behind political correctness.

    Yvonne Cook, instructor of government, cautioned against blaming others for their situations.

    “Don’t blame the government. In a Democracy, the leaders you get are the ones that you select,” she said.

    Cook also urged students to take personal responsibility against racism.

    “Don’t tolerate racist remarks,” she said.

    Cook encouraged students to educate themselves on history of all kinds.

    “Learn about races and religions. Learn about Islam and different aspects of Islam. Learn history. Learn African-American history and learn U.S. history.

    The panel stressed the point that any race can be the subject of racism or prejudice. An example was given of all whites being stereotyped as racists.

    The panel agreed that the next generation must learn about other cultures in order to take steps to eliminate racism.