No exploitation

I am writing in response to “Victims of the Press” written by Alfred Tatum.

He insinuated the members of Omega Psi Phi were victimized and exploited by The Northern Star because they are African-Americans.

He also stated that the original article had some unnecessary components: the map of their destinations, the quoting of the money spent at each location and the type of alchohol purchased.

Exploit is defined as “to make selfish or unethical use of.” Beth Behland stated the facts. She told who did what, when they did it and how many times it happened.

No where in the article did she mention any hearsay, rumors, or most importantly, that the fraternity members were black. What did Beth Behland have to gain by “exploiting” them and their wrongdoings.

When will this madness stop? Anytime there is any mention of a wrongdoing that is committed by a black person, or group by anyone else that is not also black, the cry of racism or unfair treatment goes out.

When will people realize that if it is a crime or transgression, it is a wrongdoing?

Tatum wants to know when an equilibrium will be reached. It can’t be until we stop shying away from the truth and accept the blame when it is deserved, and stop feeling empathy for the wrong party. The article was not a “non-controlled attack.” It was a statement of true facts—no more, no less.

I am not a “sell-out.” I stand by my people but in this case, the three members of Omega Psi Phi were undisputably wrong. Bashing the author of the article won’t change the fact.

Everyone wants to diminish and eventually eradicate racism. Opinions and attitudes like Tatum’s encourage it. Wrong and right can’t be segregated. Ethics have no color.

Kelli Hinton

Junior

Human and Family Resources