For Black History Month, the Daily Mississippian welcomes and encourages opinions from black students regarding their lives and experiences as a black student at the University of Mississippi.
As the opinion editor, I hope to foster diversity and allow students to voice their opinions and concerns. While we feature black writers as often as they submit work, this month is especially poignant to share perspectives on life as an African-American in the South, whether as a transplant from out of state or as a homegrown student.
Mississippi’s dark history with racial issues cannot be ignored, and this month we must recognize the unpalatable facts about our state’s past. Uncountable lives, histories and stories have been lost due to the cruelty and viciousness of proud Mississippians. Likewise, we must celebrate the heroes who brought forth racial advancements, and the modern heroes who continue to fight for equality.
I came to the University of Mississippi in the fall of 2012 as we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the university’s integration. This was also the year that the university had its first black homecoming queen, Courtney Pearson.
The highs of my freshman year were followed by lows of racial tension and acts of intimidation. Three students placed a noose and a confederate emblem on the James Meredith statue in February of 2014.
Other victories were achieved with the official removal of the state flag, which shamefully continues to bear the confederate battle flag. This victory was paired by more tension as non-student members of the Imperial Knights of the Ku Klux Klan came to “protest” a NAACP rally.
Race is a more pressing issue than ever here at Ole Miss. We live in a world that pretends to be color blind as the old wounds of slavery and segregation continue to ooze and pulse from an infection that has yet to heal. For all the black community has accomplished towards true equality, there is still a way to go.
As a white woman, I can only use my privilege to follow alongside black-led marches and protests, and use my voice in spaces that are otherwise unsafe for people of color. I cannot pretend to understand the struggles the black community has faced and continues to face, but I can be an avenue to promote black voices and opinions.
Send me your opinions. Send me your pain, your frustrations. Send me stories of history and victories.
The university and its students should—no, must—hear them.
