The Red and Black

Issue date: 4/15/09 Section: Opinions

TAMARA BEST

Racism emerged on campus last week in a somewhat subtle but nevertheless real way.

It all started when The Red & Black published a front page story April 9 about the University paying Soulja Boy $28,000 to perform and agreeing to his contractual demands.

I managed to get caught in the midst of it all because I am one of the few black staffers at The Red & Black - and for whatever reason am consulted or criticized by some of my peers every time something concerning race pops into public view at the University.

What seemed to set people off in particular was The Red & Black quoting freshman Laura Claire Whatley of Decatur as saying, "I'm a little surprised by the list (of requests)," adding that she thought the list would have included "girls, liquor, weed and some honey buns."

People have their own opinions and interpretations of the quote, the story and the newspaper's coverage. That debate has gone on long enough, and I am not here to point fingers or be judge and jury.

Last week's story reinforces two issues more important than the opinions of what's newsworthy, the way stories are written and what ultimately appears on the front page the next morning or the 6 'o clock news.

More than anything, it should remind of us all of why it is still important for people to be able to express their views, regardless of how we may feel about them.

Do I agree with Whatley's statement? No. I think it was ignorant and reinforced a negative stereotype.

However, it shows how much more work needs to be done on our campus and our country to dispel many of the stereotypes we hold about each other. Our country has come a long way, but clearly we still have a ways to go in educating ourselves and others about ethnic groups, lifestyles and viewpoints different from our own.

Second, it shows the importance and need for diversity in newsrooms across America.

As reporters and editors, whether through print or broadcast, it is our job to help you, the public, interpret the world in which we live. And whether we realize it or not, we often help shape public opinion and perception - not something to be taken lightly.

For that reason, media outlets must be cognizant and take special care - at every level. From the reporter putting together the story to the editor giving it the final OK, we all must be aware, especially with stories that have the potential to be insensitive or stereotype members of a community.

Every day, our country is becoming more diverse in its ethnic makeup, viewpoints and lifestyles. And if reporters - and in particular the editors making decisions - don't represent that melting pot, voices go unheard.

That's simply not acceptable. Every community deserves a voice and deserves to have its concerns taken into consideration - regardless of whether it is considered to be in the minority or majority.

And yes, newsrooms are becoming more diverse, but no two reporters or editors are exactly alike. We all come with different viewpoints and experiences that shape the way we see the world - and so do you. And sometimes that means listening to someone else's view and then agree to disagree - that's OK too.

Granted, I understand that no matter how much care is taken someone always will be offended or take issue with the judgments of journalists. I can live with that - as long as I know we are being accurate and as fair and balanced as possible.

I encourage you to help keep us accountable. Keep asking questions, let's keep having the sometimes difficult but needed dialogue about the way the media covers events and communities.

When you think we mess up or don't hear your voice, tell us. Keep us accountable for better or worse - after all, we are here to serve you.

- Tamara Best is the recruitment editor for The Red & Black.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools