Friday, Jan. 23, 1998

Speakers discuss affirmative action

By CHENITS PETTIGREW
and ROBIN SMITH
Collegian Staff Writers

In the wake of the celebration of one man's quest for equality, debates about equal opportunity and discrimination continue.

On Jan. 21, 1965 in Rec Hall, Martin Luther King Jr. addressed the University on the future of integration.

Thirty-three years later -- to the day -- Frank Wu, associate professor of law at Howard University, addressed about 100 University students Wednesday night on the realities of affirmative action in the United States.

"I believe our country stands at a civil rights crossroads," Wu said. "We must decide what path to take."

Head of African and African American studies Deborah F. Atwater, another speaker, emphasized that racial colorblindness does not exist. Asking the audience to close their eyes, she asked "Can you imagine what this country would look like, would be, without affirmative action?"

Frank Wu, a professor at Howard University School of Law, speaks to a capacity crowd in Eisenhower Chapel Wednesday. Wu discussed affirmative action during his talk. (Collegian Photo/Andrew A. Roach - click for full size image)

Wu pointed out that there are socially accepted forms of affirmative action. At many private institutions the process of legacy, the admission of children of alumni, perpetuates affirmative action, he said.

Similarly, he said the practice of preferential treatment toward in-state students occurs at public institutions such as the University. Also, many states are considering putting limits on the number of international students admitted, despite the fact that they exceed most universities' standards, Wu added.

Wu also cited examples in which federal affirmative action was implemented successfully.

"I want you to know that affirmative action does work," Wu said.

Wu described the success of affirmative action in the U.S. military.

"The American military is more integrated than any other workforce in the world," Wu said. "We should look to the military model."

Moreover, Wu stressed proactive involvement through coalitions, which will foster unity and strengthen support. Wu added that King's creation of coalitions was an ingenious accomplishment.

"Coalitions are the most important part and the key ingredient that we have forgotten about," said Wu.

One student listener reflected upon the importance of proactive involvement.

"I think that (Wu's) focus on action instead of just rhetoric is something that a lot of people don't think about," said Rashida Ross (sophomore-labor and industrial relations).

Wu said as long as racial discrimination exists, affirmative action will exist as well.

Kieran Lasater (senior-administration of justice and sociology) said it has taken centuries for the state of racial affairs in America to reach its present point, and it will take comparably long to amend the situation.

"Affirmative action has some noble and moral goals," Lasater said, "but it's not a quick fix."