Why Keep Them

http://college.usatoday.com/2014/06/01/viewpoint-hbcu-vs-pwi-debate-misses-the-real-point-of-higher-education/

A theme circled around in class was whether or not a HBCU is relevant or needed. One valid, opposing, point was that HBCUs hinder growth against racist because it promotes separation. However true this point may be, I think it is not a strong enough argument to disregard HBCUs. HBCUs have been the landmark in the education of blacks. They were created to give opportunity to blacks not welcomed or mistreated at PWIs. HBCUs were a safe place to be a person. You did not represent your entire race at a HBCU, you were only a representation of yourself. That itself, takes a lot of the stress away from an already stressful college experience.

This is not to say that there are not issues at HBCUs. You will deal with social issues at any college, unfortunately that is apart of the society we live in. The difference is the motivation behind the discrimination. Also many black people who go to the top universities in the country come back and are honored to teach at an HBCU. Because of this, students at an HBCU receive direction from some of the brightest. These teachers are also able to not only encourage but give actual advice to reach your goals.

Also, it is helpful to not have to carry the burden of making the world a better place while trying to pass a final. Revolutionaries are born; there are specific people who want to make things better. These people are okay with carrying the weight. Also not every black person want to go to a HBCU. Therefore, the argument that this promotes segregation is irrelevant. Another thing to consider is the fact that HBCUs are open to all races, as are PWIs.

The way to fix racism is not to stripe the black race of the things that have made the difference in the community. Equality and getting rid of racial bias is important, but removing things may not be the best thing. I think that more than anything, everyday conversations need to be had.

#Neyci