The article i chose to examine is called “White valedictorian: A first for historically black Morehouse”. The article can be found at http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/05/16/white.valedictorian/index.html?iref=newssearch
Morehouse is a university located in Atlanta, Georgia. This University is known for its high academic standards and turning the dream of Martin Luther King Jr. into a reality. Joshua Packwood is one of the only white males attending Morehouse. Packwood even turned down a full scholarship to Columbia University to attend the all black men’s university of Morehouse and is now the first white male to become valedictorian in 141 years. Joshua also attended a predominately African American high school so going to Morehouse was not as uncommon for him as it would seem. Through family problems he grew up in the black community and has always gravitated toward that. In the article Joshua states, “I gained this interest in African-American studies and I thought that Morehouse would probably be the best experience, I think of it in terms of ’study abroad.’ If I really want to learn it, if I really want to understand it – maybe it’s best if I immerse myself in the culture.” The article also states instances where Joshua Packwood has been discriminated against for being the only white male at Morehouse. His fellow students were bothered by his presence and the fact that he had an African-American girlfriend and that he above 3,000 other students got to be the Valedictorian. It’s interesting to see how every race and ethnicity is discriminatory. While it makes sense, you wouldn’t think there would be discrimination at an African-American university, especially one that strives to portray the dream of Martin Luther King Jr. It just goes to show that everyone, regardless of background or race, is somewhat afraid of people being different. It’s part of human nature and while I think education and family values are a huge part of overcoming this, even establishments with the highest education face the issue sometimes.(word count: 305).
August 13, 2008 at 9:45 pm
I thought this article was very interesting. I think that it is great to see a young man who isn’t afraid to go to a college that is predominantly black despite the criticism and discrimination he may face. He could just as easily (as easy as getting 100% paid tuition) attend a predominantly white college where he wouldn’t be seen any different from the next student and not have to face the challenges this situation brings him. It is great to see that this man is trying to make a difference and is willing to stick his neck out in order to make change happen. Not only is he attending a black college, but he is excelling, and achieving an exceptional grade point average. I am interested to know what his upbringing was and what exactly drew his interest to the African American culture. We need more people like him in the world who are willing to do whatever it takes to create change for the better no matter what it takes. It’s people like him who will break down stereotypes and defeat the barriers our society has created in regards to race and the discrimination it brings. (198)
August 13, 2008 at 10:45 pm
I really liked your blog- it sounds like you found an interesting article about overcoming a situation that is the opposite of “typical” racism in America. Instead of the more common white discrimination against African Americans, this white student faced college life as a minority. I thought it was pretty hypocritical of the students of a university that takes so much pride in its experiences with Martin Luther King Jr. But, it is clear that some things have changed over the past 141 years- as the first white student was elected as the class valedictorian. Sometimes change seems to be so slow, but at least we are starting to see some major progress in the acceptance of minority cultures. (W.C.: 121)
August 14, 2008 at 6:37 am
Great blog. It is very interesting that he crossed the “racial boundary” to go to Morehouse. I am sure it presented various challenges and learning opportunities for him. Although I applaud him, and I am not certain that I agree with colleges that are chartered to cater to a particular race, as they tend to lead to voluntary segregation and isolation if there is not firm curriculum that stresses exposure to other cultures.
We live in a large world with a global economy. Part of the college experience is the diversity you are exposed to. This diversity (if you choose to accept it) is one of the key factors that primes you for working in the real world and dealing with diverse groups of people. Races should intermingle for the purpose of education and tolerance. If they interact with one and other, I really do feel that they are more likely to achieve personal and professional relationships outside their race.
(word count = 164)