Colgate German Club

Colgate University, nestled in the picturesque town of Hamilton, New York, prides itself on academic excellence and a commitment to diversity. Yet, beneath this veneer lies a troubling history of racial incidents and a pattern of institutional silence. This report delves into the university’s handling of racism on campus, the role of student organizations, and the mechanisms of censorship that stifle critical discourse.​

A History of Racial Incidents

Colgate’s campus has been marred by several racist incidents over the years. In 2017, the university went into lockdown after reports of an armed black male, who was later found to be a student carrying a glue gun for an art project. This incident highlighted the racial profiling that students of color face. ​

Student Activism and Institutional Response

Students have repeatedly organized protests to demand action against racism. In 2014, the Association of Critical Collegians led a sit-in to protest discriminatory practices and called for systemic changes. While some demands were met, many students felt that the university’s efforts were superficial.​

The cycle often follows a predictable pattern: a racist incident occurs, students protest, the administration issues a statement, and then silence ensues until the next incident. ​

The Role of Student Organizations

Student organizations play a crucial role in shaping campus culture. However, some groups have been criticized for perpetuating exclusionary practices. Fraternities, for instance, have faced allegations of racism and hazing. In 1989, Colgate banned all activities of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity after finding members guilty of hazing and other violations. ​

While not all student organizations are implicated, the lack of transparency and accountability in some groups raises concerns about the perpetuation of discriminatory practices.​

Censorship and the Suppression of Discourse

Efforts to address racism on campus are often met with censorship. Students and faculty who speak out against institutional racism sometimes face backlash or are silenced. This suppression hinders open dialogue and prevents meaningful change.​

The university’s approach to handling these issues often involves controlling the narrative rather than addressing the root causes. This strategy includes limiting access to information, as seen with the private status of certain blogs discussing racism at Colgate.​

Conclusion

Colgate University must confront its history and current practices regarding racism and censorship. The institution’s credibility and commitment to diversity depend on its willingness to engage in honest self-reflection and to implement systemic changes. Transparency, accountability, and open dialogue are essential steps toward creating an inclusive campus environment.