We appreciate Dr. Serber taking the time to do this interview with Equal Opportunities for Students. This is another installment of our Food for Thought series.
We have one quick correction to make from his interview; the threats against black students on Penn State’s campus in 2001 were not towards the Black Student Union, but were directed at Penn State’s Black Caucus. Many schools, colleges, and universities have problems with racial diversity both statistically and culturally. Many schools, colleges, and universities have issues with being divided racially. Many colleges and universities attempt to make themselves artificially more diverse by bringing in large numbers of international students. Many school districts have schools that aren’t very integrated, and don’t take the necessary steps to integrate the schools. Research has shown that integrated schools have a positive effect on the education of students. Racial and ethnic discrimination in education comes in many forms. Reports of racial and ethnic bullying have increased recently, and it is an issue that must be addressed so all students can feel safe in their school environment. What can we do to teach students about different cultures, and make all students feel welcomed at their schools, colleges, and universities?