At The University of Memphis, the question of race relations looms like the lingering certainty of death -- many avoid talking about it, but it remains an aspect of life that no one can avoid.
To some, The U of M stands as a pillar of diversity, providing a dynamic variety of people bound by the common quest of a higher education.
To others, the harsh vestiges of racism continue to plague the institution, seeping in from a city and country that continues to struggle with the ravaging affects of racial disharmony.
Maurice Williams, the crime prevention specialist at The U of M, staff senate president and chairman of the University's Standing Community for Human Relations, said racial relations continue to be an explosive issue that affects all realms of society, including The U of M.
"We are working diligently in a coordinated effort, so that one day, we can truly celebrate a unified campus," Williams said. "Our ultimate goal is that everyone that represents this university finds equality, while maintaining a shared respect, appreciation and tolerance for each other."
However, Williams said there are many hurdles to overcome before the celebration takes place.
"Outside of class, I think the campus is segregated," said Debra Turner, a student at The U of M. "People from different backgrounds and races tend to hang out at different locations. I rarely see different people mesh together."
Clouding the picture, in 1997, a number of U of M students became embroiled in a racially-motivated brawl. The fight resulted in numerous disciplinary actions, including the revocation of the Kappa Alpha fraternity chapter at The U of M.
In the years since, there have been additional isolated incidents provoked by racial tensions, prompting The University to step up efforts in both race relations and awareness.
Currently, there are 21 different ethnic groups that comprise the mosaic of cultural diversity at The U of M.
In addition, numerous students identified themselves as belonging to more than one race, placing themselves among the 63 possible racial combinations in the city of Memphis, according to the Office of Institutional Research at The U of M.
"It's really very primitive that certain people can't get along simply because of the color of their skin or their differences in background," said Brian Houck, a student majoring in education.
Taking a progressive stance, The University has dedicated the entire month of April to the advancement of human relations.
The University's Project Unite Committee, comprised of students, staff and faculty, continues to embody The University's vision of a unified campus, as well as serving as a vehicle to spread ideals of social justice and nonviolence throughout the campus and community.
Today, the committee will host an event to commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King, who was assassinated in Memphis on this day in 1968.
During the event, the committee will honor members of the student, staff and faculty, in recognition of their commitment and service in combating human relation conflicts, reflecting the hopes and dreams of the man that became a martyr in Memphis.
The highlight of this year's event is a keynote address by noted lecturer Nina Katz, a Holocaust survivor and lifetime board member of the National Conference for Community and Justice.
The awards program will begin at noon in the Fogelman Executive Center.
In addition, the Student Activities Council is sponsoring a lecture on April 7, which will cover racial trends and affairs in America. The scheduled speakers, one white and one black, are apparently the descendants of Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemmings, who allegedly engaged in a forbidden love affair that produced children in 1786.
"The diversity of The U of M is indicative of the community, so it's important that we set a good example and work to conquer our differences," Williams said.
