This weekend a Black Student Union held a Black Family Weekend at The University of New Hampshire. The goal was to help connect students of color and their families with the UNH community.

“It has been extremely well organized,” said Tristan Striker, a junior and BSU volunteer for Black Family Weekend. “It’s a big example of what a university brings in terms of diversity. A big step forward in bringing diversity to the university in a more approachable and entertaining way.”

Ahhhh, there is that word I love so much, diversity! Now don’t get me wrong, I have absolutely no qualms about a Black Student Union holding a Black Family Weekend, however I do take offense to this:

The biggest criticism from the weekend seemed to be the under-representation of white students at many of the weekend’s events.

“It’s said that the majority of UNH students feel that these events weren’t meant for them or their enjoyment, when the goal of the BSU events are for everyone to enjoy them,” said Fields.

Her sentiment seems to be carried by others.

“I hope white people around here start getting it together and step outside their privileged comfort zones to meet some amazing people and make life at UNH what it could be if we all were less individualistic and more committed to true change,” said Vaughan.

Step outside their privileged comfort zones? Is this what diversity means at UNH? After reading that comment I somehow doubt white people would have felt welcome at this event.

I do have a quick question for the organizers though. How can you call it Black Family weekend and expect whites to show up??? I suppose if no heterosexual men showed up at a meeting for lesbians this would come as quite a shock to you as well!

As college students, the Black Student Union is in a somewhat enviable position. Their misconceived notions on race are not so deeply embedded in them that their minds cannot be changed. So here is lesson number one in race relations, and it applies to all, not specifically a minority group. If you wish to convince others on the benefits of a diverse, and color blind society, you must first accept diversity and be color blind yourself. Holding a Black Family weekend is not necessarily a good first step towards a color blind society.

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Diversity, Features, Liberals, Racism