A panel discussion that aimed to address the role white people play in the fight against racism last night evolved into a debate about what racism is and whether or not white privilege exists.

"I felt like the focus had changed to whether racism exists," said Robin Hoecker (junior-international development).

Jeff Budney, chairman of Young Americans for Freedom, said black people have been able to achieve economic success, and will continue to do so within the free market.

"If I have any privilege, it's because of the work that my family did to provide a better life for their children and grandchildren," Budney said. He said his grandparents were immigrants who profited from their own hard work.

"There's a difference when you're coming over on a different ship," said Donna King, a community activist, after which the crowd applauded.

Amber Pawlik, a member of YAF, said that as a female member of the military and engineering student, both traditionally male institutions, she understands what it means to be in the minority.

The answer to problems that face minorities, she said, is to view people as individuals, not as members of groups.

"Affirmative action encourages people to look at people as a group," Pawlik said.

"It's not only how people see themselves, but it's how the people who are controlling their lives see them," said audience member Romel Sharma (sophomore-philosophy).

Jarvis George (graduate-theatre) said he agreed that capitalism could create an ideal situation.

"We should all start at the starting line, and whoever wins, wins — but minorities start 10 yards behind," he said.

Pawlik argued that white privilege and male dominance do not exist. "My basic conclusion is it's complete garbage," she said. One student from the audience asked Budney if he acknowledged that racism exists, and if so, what he planned to do about it.

"Yes, I think racism exists. Yes, I think racism exists at this university," Budney said. To counter racism, he encouraged engaging in conversation, judging on personal attributes and keeping a sense of humor.

Pawlik said the language of blame promotes separation and makes it difficult for people to discuss these issues.

George agreed. "It does turn people off — it would turn me off too."

King encouraged the students to avoid language that brings blame and guilt and to try to understand each other.

"We all need to know how each other feels," she said. "The best thing that could happen tonight is that we could all have these feelings."

John Christman, professor of philosophy, said the panelists' ideas were not mutually exclusive. "One can be proud of one's environment while recognizing the environment of a privileged society," he said.

To overcome this social disparity, King said students must work together to study racism, learn how to define it, and alleviate it. "You must recognize that society has created that disparity and that's not your fault," King said.

Economics do not provide all the answers to a Eurocentric society grounded on racism, she said.

"Did I still achieve? Yes, I did, but I also sued," King said.

Shannon Ingram (senior-human development and family studies) said people must develop a sense of urgency, and move to end racism immediately.

"Not tomorrow, not yesterday, it has to change now," Ingram said.