Controversial rapper and author Sister Souljah is going to make a visit to campus, and that visit is causing several student officials to complain.
Souljah, who was quoted in the Washington Post as saying, "If black people kill black people every day, why not have a week and kill white people?" is believed by many to be a racist.
Those comments caused then-president Bill Clinton to criticize Souljah for her remarks, which drew national attention.
Souljah later wrote that Clinton, "lacks integrity at painting himself as a staunch patrtiot, a people's servant, a compassionate liberal, a family man, a pro-woman candidate and coherent scholar."
"As a student, and as an American, (Souljah's comments) insult me. She just hates America," said Andrew McGarrity, chairman of the College Republicans.
McGarrity is upset that the activity funds of U of m students are going to pay for Souljah's visit to the campus, where she is scheduled to appear on Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. at the Michael D. Rose Theatre. McGarrity said that he and others would be lobbying the administration of The U of M with letters and phone calls to let them know about Souljah's past comments and their objections to the rapper's visit.
"I think if the administration knew about her past, they would be upset," said McGarrity.
Souljah is accused of implying that white leaders collectively and systematically beat down and destroy black people.
"White people deny it all, refuse to discuss it, silence, intimidate and harass those who take a stand and fight back
"Yes, I am angry, which means that I am sane," said Souljah.
Souljah has written two books, and is the executive director for Daddy's House Social Programs Inc., which is financed by Sean "Puffy" Combs.
She was nominated and voted on by the Black History Month Committee, which is made up of students, to be a speaker for The U of M's Black History Month observances.
"Whenever we have a speaker, there are pro-people and con-people, and the question-and-answer portion of the lectures allows both kinds of people to ask their own questions," said Katrina Heard, Minority Affairs coordinator.
When asked if he believed Souljah was racist, McGarrity said, "Some of her sentiments tend to suggest that she is."
Souljah said that she is definitely not a racist, but does describe her album, "360 Degrees of Power," as "designed specifically with the African community in mind."
"The fact that I, as a student, am paying for her to come here is ridiculous. We're outraged," said McGarrity. "If other students knew about it, they wouldn't stand for it."
