“There is no pretty way of dealing with the issue of racism.”  ___jhh

Although this is my personal quote, it also bears truth from history itself.

In bringing awareness and a challenge to the UTC community regarding racism, my e-mail was meant to relieve some of the hurt, pain and suffering caused by “racism denial” which lies within the foundation of this institution and bears some presence even today.  It was not done with anger. It was not done with hostility. Nor was it done with any personal motive or vendetta against anyone. But to see a student on her knees crying because of what she perceives to be racism, as well as other incidents shared of horror stories involving racism at UTC, causes me not to keep silent. 

In doing what I have done, I am fully aware of both the negative consequences, as well as the positive and good things that can come from this. Anytime you raise the issue of racism, you bring out both the best and the worse in people. That is all a part of this tedious task of birthing equality. Sitting down at the table of reasoning and racial reconciliation is not something that is at first tasteful, and those who ask that the table be set and guest welcomed are often the ones who are crucified for doing so. Nevertheless, the table must be set, and the invitation must be made if we are to count freedom as a delicacy offered to all mankind. 

I have counted the cost for doing so, and realized that perhaps now I have become the “lamb for the slaughter” for some, and perhaps a “courageous soul” to others. I also understand that those who are racist will oppose me openly and even worse subtly, while those who are happy to see it addressed will openly or secretly applaud this effort. Then there will be those in between,  hoping for the best, but waiting to see which way the wind will blow, so that they are not caught up in the stormy currents, with others numb to it all.  But all of this is okay, as long as in the end, something GOOD comes out of this.

Despite all of this, as were my forerunner of civil rights, I am a praying woman. Believe me this is sometimes the only thing that gets you through when you step into these kinds of troubled and offensive waters that run deep into the complexities of the hearts of mankind. But in life, I have been through worse storms than this. However in the end, I have faith and confidence in the basic good of humanity, which causes those who know right from wrong to seek to do what is right.

I have done my part, and know others also will do the same. Now let’s  just see what GOOD can come of this.

There is no hate in my heart for anyone, and if I have offended anyone, other than those who are racists, by being so candid with the truth, it was not intended.

Love you ALL (and I truly do mean this)!  

Jean
  

Dr. Jean Howard-Hill
Political Science Department
419 Fletcher Hall
Chattanooga, Tennessee 37403
423-425-5702

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