A ‘New Breed’
I think Christie is a wonderful example of the “new breed” of Indian law practitioners (see “Broadening the Legal Landscape,” Nov. 29). I congratulate her and the University of Tulsa for being legally farsighted and truly responsive to the Native community’s needs. I do take issue with Christie when she used the word “only” when referring to the tribal bars/courts wherein she is admitted to practice. It sounds a little denigrating to those of us who have been practicing Indian law for 20 years or more, in the trenches of the tribal courts — where Indian law practitioners are really needed — not just the federal and/or state courts. Otherwise, great article and great people.
— Robert McAnally, J.D.
Time for Tough Love?
DIVERSE ONLINE (www.diverseeducation.com)
(“Perspectives: Cosby Offers More Needed Tough Love in New Book,” Dec. 6, 2007)
Dr. Cosby & Dr. Poussaint are right on target. We have to get real with our kids, our community and, most importantly, ourselves. We have to get back to good old-fashioned parenting. I am not a proponent of corporal punishment. But, it does appear that if parents do not beat (beat meaning to force knowledge and plain old common sense) their Black kids, the police surely will (I mean physical beating when referring to the police). We have tried the parenting methods of other cultures and they do not work with our children. Our children are kids. They are not little adults. They should not call adults by their first name. They should not have the option of always expressing themselves whenever they feel like it. There is a time and place for everything. It’s time to become effective parents again. If we don’t fill our roles, we are going to have problems for generations to come.
— Carolyn Vermont
Black Studies — Still a Priority
(“UT at San Antonio Student Group Protests Cancellation of Black Studies Course,” Dec. 5, 2007)
The removal of African-American studies programs across the country should be a wake-up call to those who question the importance of historically Black colleges and universities. It is quoted regularly that people must embrace their history in order to strengthen their culture. One can achieve an education in any field of endeavor at myriad colleges and universities across this great country. However, the ability to gain an on-campus experience with diverse opinions and courses taught by African-American professors who care is rare. African-American studies still remain a top priority at HBCUs across the country. Programs will come and go at schools where there is a lack of attendance. Let’s make a greater effort to attend and support HBCUs and their programs if that is the field that our students have chosen to pursue!
— Wilfred Frye
With Friends Like These…
(“Black Greeks Debate Their Future,” Nov. 19, 2007)
So far my research shows that films such as “Stomp the Yard” condone and glorify the violence of hazing. Why do folks want to be part of and pay dues to a family that beats and abuses you. I got that kind for free from my family of origin.
— Rev. Dr. E-K. Daufin
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