Black Graduation misconceptions debunked
By: Ryane Jackson
Issue date: 4/23/07 Section: News
"The ceremony does not take the place of the main graduation," Roberson said. "However, the ceremony is an extra pat on the back for the African American students that lets them know that they were able to deal with all the extra obstacles that maybe the majority of the campus population didn't have to deal with. They're able to deal with these obstacles and still make it through."
Many probably wonder what type of obstacles did the black population have to deal with the white population did not?
"Many of the black students had to deal with racism," Roberson said. "We live in a small community and along with the small community come traditional ideals. When a minority group is in a city as such, they tend to encounter more racial issues. However, these obstacles are not limited to racism. "
Racial issues have always been a subject on the SFA campus and have sparked numerous debates. However, the campus would agree that the effects of racism could attack ones self worth and confidence. In the academic setting, lack of self worth and confidence can hinder ones ability to study and go to class. Students who have encountered racial problems and still been able to continue on their academic journeys without missing a step should be commended.
"The ceremony is geared toward the black students, but anybody can come and be a part of it," Roberson said. "If there is a person that feels that they had to overcome similar obstacles and want to be recognized they are welcome to come. Families are invited too."
The last comment that should be addressed about this celebratory ceremony is the concept of a White Graduation and the legalities of it. The BCC is geared toward black students, but others are permitted to participate if they choose to. If other racial groups choose not to be a part of the ceremony, then that is not the fault of the organization putting the event on. In general, it is an open event.
The ceremony is held in May the week of graduation. For more information on this event contact the Multicultural Center at 936-468-1073
Many probably wonder what type of obstacles did the black population have to deal with the white population did not?
"Many of the black students had to deal with racism," Roberson said. "We live in a small community and along with the small community come traditional ideals. When a minority group is in a city as such, they tend to encounter more racial issues. However, these obstacles are not limited to racism. "
Racial issues have always been a subject on the SFA campus and have sparked numerous debates. However, the campus would agree that the effects of racism could attack ones self worth and confidence. In the academic setting, lack of self worth and confidence can hinder ones ability to study and go to class. Students who have encountered racial problems and still been able to continue on their academic journeys without missing a step should be commended.
"The ceremony is geared toward the black students, but anybody can come and be a part of it," Roberson said. "If there is a person that feels that they had to overcome similar obstacles and want to be recognized they are welcome to come. Families are invited too."
The last comment that should be addressed about this celebratory ceremony is the concept of a White Graduation and the legalities of it. The BCC is geared toward black students, but others are permitted to participate if they choose to. If other racial groups choose not to be a part of the ceremony, then that is not the fault of the organization putting the event on. In general, it is an open event.
The ceremony is held in May the week of graduation. For more information on this event contact the Multicultural Center at 936-468-1073