A recent discussion at UHCL called “A Conversation on the Black Experience” revealed that most black people’s experiences in life are determined by the discrimination they face.
A Conversation on the Black Experience was held on campus Feb. 15, sponsored by the Office of Student Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (SDEI) and facilitated by Andrea Baldwin, lecturer in communication. About 50 people attended this event, and the discussion was held with chairs arranged in a circular fashion in order to aid in peer involvement.
Throughout the conversation, Baldwin emphasized the struggles and prejudices black people face in society and at UHCL today. In addition, the discussion also explored solutions to some of the problems black people face.
The first issue examined was the non-black person’s “I do not see color” response toward black people. Although many may see this response as respectful and inclusive, Baldwin stated that this response can indicate that, “the individual is itemizing race and removing one’s identity.”
A solution to this response would be to acknowledge one’s color and accept that although their skin color may be different, that does not make their human value depreciate.
“The acceptance of a person’s black heritage, accommodated with acknowledging that it is a privilege to be black, is integral to a black person’s livelihood,” said Psychology Major Julia Ross about the notion of criticizing and devaluing black people purely based upon their skin color.
As an example of the devaluing of black people, a member of the circle referenced former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s 2016 protest that involved kneeling or sitting during the national anthem. Kaepernick intended to utilize his fame by protesting before the televised games to bring awareness to the United States’ treatment of minorities. However, many took his protest as an act against patriotism rather than an act against inequality.
“This misinterpretation shows how an act by a black man can be misconstrued and manipulated into making him look like a rebellious black boy rather than a good-hearted citizen,” said Tonya Lloyd-Hoxie, UHCL alumnae.
Another issue that was discussed was referred to as “the talk.” Although many may correlate “the talk” to something attributed with maturity or “the birds and the bees,” to a black parent “the talk” is a completely different conversation.
“I had to sit down and tell my two boys at the ages of nine and twelve that they do not go by the same rules as their non-black friends,” said Lloyd-Hoxie. “They have to dress, behave and speak in a different way because I want them to make it home alive.”
Lloyd-Hoxie was referring to police brutality against black men and the reoccurring injustice in the criminal justice system. The room fell silent due to the immense amount of emotion that everyone felt concerning the content of her story.
“A Conversation on the Black Experience” examined several other controversial topics and brought awareness to individuals who may have been unaware of a black person’s daily struggle. In addition, this conversation encouraged people to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues while in a safe environment.
Upon conclusion of the event, a few individuals shared their opinions and views on the topics discussed.
“Everyone has a different view regarding racist ideas and hearing others discuss black struggles is hard, but it is also necessary in order to incite change,” said Lloyd-Hoxie.
Bethany Gambino, communication major, found the conversation educational.
“This experience was very insightful and eye opening on the struggles black people face daily, and educating others who may not understand could aid in solving racial issues,” Gambino said.
Once the discussion ended, many of the attendees did not leave the Garden Room. They formed small groups and continued to discuss their views and opinions on racial inequality.
“How truly captivating it is to witness the conversations that ensued after the conclusion of the discussion,” Baldwin said. “I hope to continue conducting this conversation for many years to come, because big change happens with first a conversation.”