By Edelia J. Carthan, Ed.D
Contributing Writer
PHOTO CREDIT: DR. JAY TAKES A SELFIE AT JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY ELEVATORS IN THE STUDENT'S UNION
As a parent, one of the most crucial decisions you'll make is where to send your child to college. This choice shapes not only their education but also their worldview, values, and sense of self. For Black families, this decision carries an added weight: the need to protect our children from environments that may be hostile to their identity and history. Given this, it’s essential to examine the legacy of racial discrimination at institutions like the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) and the University of Southern Mississippi (Southern Miss).
These schools, despite efforts to evolve, still carry histories and current policies that pose dangers to our children. In light of recent legislation like Mississippi’s SB2402, which bans diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in higher education, the risks have only increased. Instead, I urge you to consider historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), such as Jackson State University, as a safer and more empowering choice.
The Troubling History of Ole Miss and Southern Miss
Ole Miss is perhaps one of the most infamous examples of a university with a deeply entrenched history of racial discrimination. The institution’s violent response to the enrollment of James Meredith, its first Black student, in 1962 remains a stark reminder of the hostility that once defined the campus. The rioting that ensued—fueled by white supremacists—led to two deaths and hundreds of injuries.
Despite efforts to distance itself from this past, Ole Miss continues to struggle with racial incidents and a culture that can be unwelcoming to Black students. In 2019, for instance, a photo of students posing with guns in front of a bullet-riddled Emmett Till memorial sparked outrage and renewed concerns about the campus’s racial climate.
Southern Miss has a similarly troubling history. In 1955, the university (then known as Mississippi Southern College) made national headlines when it denied the admission of Clyde Kennard, a Black Korean War veteran who sought to enroll. In retaliation, Kennard was framed for a crime he didn’t commit and sentenced to seven years in prison, where he eventually died due to inadequate medical care. Although the university has since worked to improve its image, recent incidents show that remnants of its racist past still linger. In 2017, for example, Southern Miss faced criticism when students displayed a Confederate flag during a football game, underscoring the persistence of racist symbols and attitudes on campus.
SB2402 and the DEI Ban: A Step Backward
The introduction of SB2402 by Senator Angela Burks Hill (R), which bans DEI initiatives in Mississippi’s public universities, marks a significant step backward for higher education in the state. DEI programs are designed to create more inclusive and supportive environments for all students, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. By eliminating these programs, Mississippi is effectively rolling back efforts to address the systemic inequities that have long plagued its educational institutions.
This legislation is part of a broader national trend, reflected in efforts like Project 2025, a conservative agenda aimed at reshaping American governance, including higher education, by reducing or eliminating diversity initiatives. Project 2025 seeks to influence future administrations to prioritize “patriotic education” over DEI efforts, further entrenching the exclusion of minority voices and histories from educational institutions. The implications are clear: schools like Ole Miss and Southern Miss, already burdened by their racist legacies, are being positioned to become even less welcoming and supportive of Black students.
The Ongoing Challenges at Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs)
While some may argue that times have changed and that these institutions are now inclusive, the reality is that many Black students still face subtle and overt racism at predominantly white institutions (PWIs). Microaggressions, a lack of representation among faculty, and curricula that often marginalize Black history and perspectives are just a few of the challenges that Black students encounter. These experiences can be isolating and harmful, leading to a hostile learning environment that undermines students' confidence and academic success.
Although the DEI ban introduced by Senator Angela Burks Hill ultimately died in committee, the mere proposal of such legislation underscores the persistent challenges Black students face. The potential removal of DEI programs signals to students of color that their needs and experiences are not fully valued—a message that, if acted upon in the future, could have long-lasting effects on their educational and personal development.
The HBCU Experience: Empowerment and Excellence
In contrast, HBCUs like Jackson State University, Alcorn State University, and Mississippi Valley State University, offer a supportive environment where Black students can thrive. These institutions were founded with the mission of providing higher education to Black Americans at a time when they were excluded from PWIs. Today, HBCUs continue to fulfill this mission by nurturing a sense of pride, community, and identity among their students.
At Jackson State, students are surrounded by peers and faculty who share their experiences and understand the challenges they face. The university’s commitment to fostering leadership, scholarship, and cultural awareness provides a foundation for success that extends beyond the classroom. HBCUs also play a critical role in producing Black professionals, particularly in fields like STEM, education, and law, where diversity is sorely needed.
As a proud Jackson State alum, I can attest to the transformative power of attending an HBCU. The sense of belonging, the rigorous academic programs, and the opportunity to be surrounded by Black excellence every day are invaluable. This is not just about avoiding the dangers of institutions with racist histories—it’s about choosing an environment where our children can truly flourish.
Conclusion: Choose Jackson State—It’s the Right Choice
In a world where the legacy of racism still looms large, sending your child to a school with a history of racial discrimination is a risk that’s simply not worth taking. The challenges that Black students face at PWIs like Ole Miss and Southern Miss are real and can have lasting effects on their educational and personal development. With the added threat of legislation like SB2402 and initiatives like Project 2025, these institutions are becoming even less hospitable to our children. Instead, consider the benefits of an HBCU, where your child will be valued, supported, and empowered to achieve greatness.
“Choose Jackson State, I did.”
Dr. Edelia J. Carthan is a dedicated activist and former college professor at Tougaloo College. She is the President and CEO of CarthanEnterprises.com and a contributing writer for the Mississippi Link Newspaper. With a career focused on education, social justice, and challenging false narratives, Dr. Carthan is also a published author, Consultant, and Life Coach, committed to empowering others, fostering healing, and promoting community development.
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