<p>"As America's first black president settles into the Oval Office, it seems an odd time for Georgia to be up in arms over school integration again. In 1961, when a federal court ordered the University of Georgia to admit two black students, 1,000 white rioters hurled firecrackers, bricks and racial epithets through dorm windows. But 1961 this is not: today a white Republican is leading the charge, and black students and lawmakers are fighting for the status quo."</p>
<p>Many African-American organizations and institutions, including HBCUs, arose at a time when blacks were excluded from white institutions, so the historically African-American versions of schools, churches, and fraternal organizations grew to reflect the unique cultural needs and traditions of their populations. Then, legal segregation ended but the separate institutions continue because they offer those unique emphases with outreach and support for African-American communities. Isn’t it interesting that integration to us white folks invariably means “Hey African-Americans - abandon the institutions and traditions you’ve spent a century and a half developing and come embrace ours.” None of us ever seem to suggest having the majority-white organization abandon its culture to join the historically black one.</p>
<p>Thanks so much for posting this article, which I’ve shared with several friends.</p>
<p>Until my D started applying to colleges, and planning to go, I couldnt even imagine how difficult this is for African-Americans. Worried about how roommates will react? Every child is different, and there are HBCUs becuase they meet the needs of some children.</p>
<p>I agree with your sentiments. Bu HBCU’s have a challenge as we continue to integrate in terms of defining their mission in an increasingly pluralistic and multi-racial society. </p>
<p>Not all will take the same path in transforming themselves. Likely a good thing for some; not so good for others. And I would think the schools themselves need to lead the charge - not state legislatures, although they will be called upon to help. </p>
<p>Their graduation rates by and large are not that competitive. That to me is their biggest challenge at this time.</p>