Re: Speak Out OSU

From: Riker Kasamoto
President, OSU College Republicans
On Monday, November 16, 2015, students of color spoke out about their experiences with racism on campus. On Wednesday, the Daily Barometer published an article I wrote pertaining to the event; In regards to Monday 'Speak Out OSU' event.

One person wasn't fond of the letter and wrote; In regards to Kasamoto letter on Nov. 18.

I created a response to this letter but the barometer wouldn't publish it since they only allow one entry per month. Here it is...

My response to Riccio:
Being somewhat critical of the Speak Out OSU event, I attempted to bring both sides of the aisle together by writing “Speak Out OSU should represent students under Orange and Black, not just on race."

Alexander Riccio wasn't fond of these comments and said, "it is not admirable to pine for abstract unity without acknowledging the social differences that stratify society."

There are key social differences between blacks that live in the urban city and whites that live in suburbia. Two of the biggest Civil Rights challenges for African Americans today are the violence occurring in cities like Chicago as well as the anti-police rhetoric that was spawned following the events in Ferguson, Missouri. The grievances expressed at Speak Out OSU pale in comparison.

People of all races seem to get along in Corvallis. Thus, why not have an inclusive conversation about institutional racism? The most eye-opening conversations that I had regarding multicultural issues were in TCE 219, a Baccalaureate Core class taught by Winston Cornwall. Cornwall set up panels for students of color, women, disabled, LGBT, and yes, white men to share their opinions regarding civil rights and multiculturalism. The most problematic part of Speak Out OSU was that they purposely excluded white people from giving their input to an important conversation.

I cannot speak on behalf of the white community because I am a student of color but it is observable that many white students today feel like they are not welcomed or included. The university has already implemented reverse discrimination programs such as affirmative action. In the 21st century, I would hope that we could all get along and speak to one another about our differences, regardless of skin color. Apparently not, as people like Riccio want to continue judging people based on their skin color.

OSU College Republicans
OSUGOP.com
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Note: The original coverage by the Daily Barometer, "Students of color speak out." is no longer available on the website. Here is a link to the Corvallis Gazette-Times article; "OSU students discuss campus racism."