Associated Students of Madison and the Multicultural Academic Programs and Services hosted a forum meeting entitled “Terrorism on Campus” to discuss the increase of racially biased actions on campus Tuesday.
The hosts of the forum said the title of the meeting reflects the fact that minorities often feel terrorized on a daily basis by racist or insensitive students.
“Terrorism is unjust violence, just as crimes against minorities are,” Jenny Chen, co-chair of the ASM Diversity Committee, said.
The weeks following the terrorist attacks have shown an increase in campus complaints describing harassment and violence against minorities who are wrongfully associated with the terrorists on the basis of physical appearance.
Most of the verbal attacks reported involved name-calling or shouts to “go home,” though others were more threatening. One student said she was told not to walk around in public for a few days following the attacks.
The recent spike in complaints may not solely be an effect of the national tragedy, but of a magnification of a potential underlying atmosphere of ignorance and insensitivity.
Perhaps the most visible example of this occurred on State Street during the Halloween celebration, where a significant number of students donned costumes some say represent ethnic stereotypes, especially those of Hispanics and African-Americans.
When asked if they thought the costumes could be seen as offensive to the groups they portrayed, all answered that they did not think it would be an issue.
According to Sgt. Jerome VanNatte of UW Police, the best way to eliminate ignorance is through education starting at an early age.
“We need to educate children from a young age and have public forums to discuss these issues,” he said. “Without education, our students and staff members will not be able to empathize with the harassed.”
He also said campus culture may be part of the problem.
“Alcohol plays a big part as it brings out the worst in people,” he said.
Whatever means is used in educating the population, one sentiment is prevalent: Progress can only be made if both minority and majority students get involved.
“It’s not people of colors’ job to teach non people of color. It should be a group effort,” Toni Johns, of the ASM Diversity Committee, said.
Recent legislation has also increased concern among minorities over potential governmental discrimination. The U.S. Patriot Act, recently passed by Congress, allows the government to apprehend anyone who is under suspicion of being a terrorist, as well as conduct secret searches and use wiretapping with fewer legal restrictions.
Students who do experience harassment or discrimination can report incidents to the Speak Up! program, a campus organization focused on helping victims of harassment.
Associate Dean Susan Jones reported the university handles approximately 30-40 complaints annually, but many more go unreported. According to Jones, pro-activity is the key in bringing progress.
“The more people speak up, the more progress will be seen in correcting these issues,” she said.
