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We’ve all heard it; we’ve all said it: 2020 has been a year like no other. Together, we’ve faced a pandemic, stressed over our finances and jobs, worried about our children’s education, listened to our leaders play the blame game instead of uniting for the citizens' benefit, and watched in horror as cities burned and families wept. For many Black Americans, 2020 has been a year like every other. Black Americans and other marginalized citizens routinely face health crises and lack access to quality health care. They earn less pay while doing the same job as their white peers. They fret over the lack of qualified teachers and educational resources in their local schools. They feel betrayed by public officials who make promises that are not kept. They experience racial slurs, derogatory comments, threats, physical brutality and murder. 2020 is nothing new for many Black Americans; it’s merely the year it all came to a head. “Systemic racism, discrimination and prejudice are all deeply rooted in our country. Institutional racial oppression of people of color has been part of our country since the beginning of slavery,” said Linda Logan, Ph.D., vice president and chief inclusion officer at Olivet College. “Most K-12 education does not include these topics in the curriculum. Until it is addressed without a revisional version of history, it is not likely the reality of the country’s understanding of systemic racism, discrimination and prejudice will advance.”
It’s Time for a Courageous Conversation Dr. Logan said the Olivet community endeavors to subscribe to the seven tenants of the College Compact, particularly the core value of treating one another with respect. “The students, faculty and staff strive to create a vibrant community that respects our differences and embraces our similarities. However, that doesn’t mean we’re perfect. We have room for improvement.” Courageous conversations about race, equity, inclusion and parity are required for the College to fulfill its mission of helping students maximize their human potential while minimizing barriers. However, there must be an openness to learn and an atmosphere of trust and respect. “Individuals must be encouraged to express their views openly and truthfully, rather than defensively or by laying blame, and that takes courage,” Dr. Logan said.
“The students, faculty and staff strive to create a vibrant community that respects our differences and embraces our similarities. However, that doesn’t mean we’re perfect. We have room for improvement.” — Linda Logan, Ph.D.,
Vice President and Chief Inclusion Officer
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