One time, Roger Kelly, Imperial Wizard of the KKK and I went to a show titled "RACISM: WRONG OR WHITE" at Howard University, featuring panelists like Reverend Jesse Jackson. I had invited Roger, not to speak, but to listen and observe different perspectives on racism. He agreed, showing up in a nice business suit. Upon arriving at Howard, despite the producer's assurance of Roger's welcome, the situation worsened. Roger was uncomfortably placed in the front row, contrary to his wish to simply observe. This positioning exposed him to potential confrontations from studio guests. Despite his discomfort, Roger chose to stay and watch the show. Suddenly, just before the show went live, Roger was removed from the audience. The reason given was 'security concerns.’ I challenged the producer and even showed them the invite where it was approved that Roger would be on the guest list and in the audience. Finally, the head producer stepped in and said " I don't want him in here and I have the final say!" Roger did not come to recruit, convert, or even dialogue for that matter. He wanted the experience to learn firsthand about victims of discrimination. Roger has come a long way at this point, the imperial wizard of the KKK went to Howard University, by himself, to accompany a Black man to a predominantly Black environment showing a great deal of trust and willingness to learn and a desire to be exposed to the other side. This was a commendable positive step forward only to be pushed 100 steps back. Instead of allowing him this experience and exposure, he became, at the hands of a Black man, the victim of the very thing Blacks have fought so hard in this country to abolish. The incident made me question the openness of academic and social platforms in addressing uncomfortable truths. This experience made me reflect on how real understanding and reconciliation can only arise from confronting and engaging all perspectives, not just the agreeable ones. Discrimination of any kind, against any color of skin, cultural background, ethnic origin, etc is racist. As for Roger, despite this incident, years later he left the Klan and we are still best friends today.
You think Black students not wanting a white supremacist Klansman at their event was racial discrimination *against* an avowed white supremacist? That’s the mortal of your story? They didn’t want him there because he belonged to an anti-Black terrorist group, not because he was white.
@nhannahjones @RealDarylDavis Allowing one incident to make you question yourself isn't a good stance. Why do people of color (black folks) are always asked to be tolerant or turn the other cheek... please. Happy he has changed, and you two are still friends.
@purvisScott3 @nhannahjones @RealDarylDavis The real question is, do you care enough about fixing the problem to do what is proven to be effective? Yes, your anger every KKK member is justified and righteous. But if we want to end white supremacy, it must start with love and forgiveness, whether or not they deserve it.
@purvisScott3 @nhannahjones @RealDarylDavis It's called being the better person, you child.