McKenzie Fleeman
mdf001@marietta.edu
On Friday, Nov. 20, students and faculty gathered at the Kremer Amphitheater to show support for students at the University of Missouri and around the country. The students, faculty and staff wore all black and took a picture to show their support. Those who could not be there for the photo were also encouraged to dress in all black to support the cause.
Due to protests surrounding several racially motivated incidents at the University of Missouri, the president and chancellor stepped down from their positions. The problems were so serious that faculty members threatened a walkout and the football team threatened a strike. But, the racial problems aren’t limited to Missouri’s campus.
Shelby Willis, vice president of the Student Diversity Council, came up with the idea for the photo at Marietta College.
“We wanted to stand with the nation against racism because of all the situations that have been happening, we wanted to take a moment and unify with the rest of the campus, and give everyone a chance to reach out,” she said.
The Student Diversity Council, formerly known as Charles Sumner Harrison Organization, was not expecting a large turnout at first.
“Talking to more and more and more people, not even knowing that I was the vice president, they would say ‘Hey are you going to the We Stand with Missouri picture?’ and it was awesome having that many people here; it was all we could ask for,” Willis said.
Sydney Willis (sister of Shelby), a member of the Student Diversity Council, was also in attendance for the photo.
“We’re really happy to have all the support at Marietta and we’re really happy with the result, and hope that by everyone seeing this many people, everyone will come out to more of these events,” she said.
Diane Bruno, first lady of Marietta College, also attended the event.
“I participated in the photo as I believe each of us are important, our lives are valuable and we all matter. When some of us are perceived as not being important or valuable, we need to do something constructive to remind others that all of us matter,” she said.
DeJaun Mitchell, coordinator for diversity and inclusion, was also in attendance. He believes in the support of students’ voice on campus. Mitchell said that the idea came about while they were planning “kickback” events.
“Every two weeks the Office of Diversity has kickbacks as a social support for minority students, but everyone is invited to come,” he said.
While Mitchell was discussing the event with the president of the Student Diversity Council, Shelby and Sydney Willis asked if they could organize the solidarity photo event.
“I’m all about supporting the students and helping guide them. They come up with a vision, and I can do the logistical stuff to get it how they want it,” Mitchell said.
Mitchell also wants to be sure that the students deserve the thanks, because it was their idea. Mitchell thought that this was a great idea to show support for others.
“Showing not only that the students here have a voice, and what their voice can do, but also showing that their peers across the country are not alone and that we hear your voice and we’re here to support you,” Mitchell said.
