Editor,

After four years at Pomona, I’m shocked at my surprise that many people still seem unable to perceive the underlying roots that create the hostilities, which keep us continually divided. The idyllic dream world Pomona professes to be is a manipulative attempt to disguise or at least not face reality. It’s time to wake up, be real with ourselves and each other! Stop accepting easy diversions and address what is really happening.

What is not being asked about Sept. 9? Why weren’t the charges of racial and gendered comments addressed when they seem to be of such importance? Why wouldn’t Prof. Thomas pursue her allegations? We must interrogate how the administration mediates in the interests of the college in events such as this. This signals a flaw in the harassment policy that needs to be considered.

In TSL I read: be aware of "racial cliques." What I don’t read is: Beware, I saw more than 2 people of color together, unless "racial" includes white. Similarly, why only focus on the concerns of white students? Would their supporters have the same personal knowledge and commitment if it had been two Black students confronting a white prof? Events which expose racism, sexism, and homophobia on all 5 campuses occur daily, but are rarely publically acknowledged. Our lack of awareness disadvantages everyone.

What of the lack of "impartial" witnesses? What human being is impartial? It is obvious we all are personally affected. Didn’t all potential witnesses move on when asked? Why didn’t campus security call the police? They have for much less. Why did these students apologize if innocent? What does Professor Thomas have to gain from this situation? Why cite her professional position and "unprofessional" behavior as an issue when it wasn’t during the incident. Obviously, Valorie Thomas is not just seen as a professor, but also as Black woman. I can admit that, why can’t you?

Maybe start with how you contribute to the underlying hostility in this environment? As a Black woman, I’m tired of justifications (or requests for them) sidestepping the responsibility of action/inaction: you’re liberal, OR racism doesn’t exist (except in reverse), OR you have friends of other races. Token efforts to incorporate (or exclude) people of color in your personal and community life is RACIST. Do you acknowledge race matters, for everyone?

I encourage a dialogue around what is NOT being said and done about the events of Sept. 9, and why.

Sincerely,

Janel Whitten ‘01