Don't let racism pass you by

As a white male, a student and a human being, I am disgusted by what has happened as of late. To see such blatant displays of racism by students of this establishment is appalling, and needs to be addressed. However, I am not writing to scold the authors of this controversy. I am writing to make a statement, a plea and a challenge to every single white student matriculated at this university.

Stand up. Speak out. Do not let these acts of racism pass you by as if you are not affected. This problem is something that we have ignored for far too long, and it has come time to take responsibility for it instead of once again standing on the sidelines. As educated people, it is our duty to step forward and extinguish any and all forms of hatred around us. There is no excuse for us to do otherwise. If we do not act as allies to those who are being oppressed, what type of society are we creating?

We, as white students at this university, need to stand tall and promise, "No more." We will not condone any form of hate or intolerance. We will not stand idle as ignorance runs rampant. And we will no longer ignore our inherent white privilege or the problems affecting our brothers and sisters because of it. Enough is enough, and the time for change is long overdue. Make use of your education. Force a change.

John Winskowicz Senior communications and rhetorical studies major