by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University
Howard University has a problem. Apparently, the school's students have taken lessons on freedom of speech to heart and actually believe they have a voice in running the campus. That problem is magnified by the fact that they are finally speaking up on issues of mismanagement and incompetence that plague many universities around the nation, particularly Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
We all know that HBCUs can be amazing places to get an education. But we also know that many HBCUs are as slow as molasses when it comes to adopting the necessary administrative adjustments to keep up with the demands of college students. We also know that many HBCUs are not even hiring very many black professors, particularly in business and the sciences (Howard University is one of them). Not having the funds to engage in sound administrative policy is almost understandable. But ignoring calls for appropriate change because it undermines your quest to maintain power....well, that just makes you a black version of the Bush Administration.
I am very excited that the students are demanding accountability. Accountability is not a dirty word in any environment. It keeps you honest as they say. Somehow we seem to think that because it is a Black institution or a Black office holder that they are not accountable to the community and people at large.
ReplyDeleteMany have forgotten why they sought those positions and what they wanted to give back to the Black community. That is why we have individuals like Dr. Condoleeza Rice becoming part of the Bush mess. As a member of the Black community do we cover her because she is a Black educated woman? Or do we hold her accountable for her deeds? How will we ever develop global leadership if we can not be honest with each other along the journey. Where is her accountability? There is none. So if she finds herself down the creek in the future, along with administration of some of the Historically Black colleges, so be it.
Lack of accountability in our schools is a major reasons (1 of several) why are children are not doing well in our schools. Yet, we have Black and Latino administrators sitting in churches, and various houses of worship week after week with no accountability. Yet we hold them in high esteem. In reference to the Bi-lingual programs it is really sad what is going on in some of those classrooms in major cities. Part of the culture of the Latino community is to honor the teacher. (Black parents, hey..!) But let us not give honor where it is not due.
I say accountability is for the weak and the strong. It will strengthen the weak when confronted with the corrupted in public service and in private companies. It will make the strong stronger because with accountability there will be established measures that individuals have to meet and demonstrate and not just give lip service to folks.
It infuriates me because so many gave up so much for the establishment of Black colleges with a great purpose. But that is what happens when insecure and selfish individuals that we promote without proving themselves and meeting the accountability standards.
Young folks you are just getting ready for the real job of cleaning up the mess. Be strong. Don't give in. It is not about you. What happens when you have fearful and weak Black folks in key roles? Things fall apart! Accountability will give them the backbone they lack. Go for it!