Questions of Credibility

-- Sherita Moseley

There seemed to be some confusion as to why the article "The evolution of prejudice" was offensive. Pulling terminology from the article itself might create a better understanding; highlighting the underlying rage, resentment, and continuous bigotry that many in society including the author, continue to deny. I am thankful for the article. What a wonderful opportunity to address these subtle, boringly repetitive, yet dangerous attitudes.

The author states "every white kid was afraid," that "they always ganged up on us," and "[racial slur] were on the warpath". She says she "never understood why the white kids didn’t [fight], but we didn’t." Writing in the present tense, she sarcastically states, "funny how [we] rarely hear about the terror ‘white folk’ were [feeling back] then." The bitterness continues in her focus on changing terminology that resulted in referring to "[racial slur]" as "people of color" or "African Americans" even though "they" called her "white." She states in present tense "...my skin is kinda pink...isn't white a color...okay, whatever."

What a fascinating (yet so eloquently resentful) personal account she gives, considering she speaks for all who share just one minuscule physical trait with her. In addition, the author accuses all who have a different external trait, rather than just those with whom she had personal contact with, of partaking in her terrorization.

The author states she "knew of several African American students given full college scholarships based solely on race." Oh really? That statement raises some intriguing questions – at least for anyone interested in going beyond their personal investment of stereotypes. Did these students she "knew of" even need a high school diploma, or any qualifications at all, for that matter? How was she made aware of the selection criteria? Were the students involved and corresponding admissions faculty members her close, personal friends, or did the dean of the college she attended share the legally protected information with her?

What was the intention behind the pointless reference to partying Puerto Ricans? Her not-so-subtle attacks on the NAACP, feminism, and Affirmative Action were poignant considering Caucasian women have benefited from Affirmative Action more than any other group; it is wise not to bite the hand that feeds you.

The beginning of "The evolution of prejudice" started with a disclaimer, stating that it was intended to offend in the hope that the "you" the reader, would be "moved" by the use of a historically derogatory and racist term. And the editorial board considered this an appropriate piece of literature to put in my university paper...at an institution of higher learning? This is what a portion of my tuition is paying for? Who was the article really intended for? Was it a score for "us" in the game of "them" against "us"? Were people who have already spent a lifetime being subjected to abusive language and behavior supposed to be moved by her superior knowledge of American race relations? Certainly the audience she and the staff had visualized does not match the beautiful mosaic of Metropolitan State University’s community.

If the author of that touching article is reading this, in reference to the last question in your final paragraph - I decided to speak up.

As Americans, we are all legally entitled to make a fool of ourselves in the name of free speech, but I ask you to take a moment and read over the quoted text. Go ahead. I’ll wait.

Assume nothing, question everything, and if you are ever tempted to proudly present a viewpoint riddled with stereotypes and absolutes, please don’t disguise it as enlightenment.