College Fund head Gray speaks about racism, equality

Speaking on issues ranging from racial equality in America to his work with the United Negro College Fund, UNCF President and former U.S. Rep. William Gray delivered a three-hour long lecture last night in Stietler Hall. Throughout the speech, Gray shifted topics, beginning with racism and then moving on to discuss what he called the regression of America's political system and the importance of education in America. Gray began by explaining that race prejudice is an on-going dilemma which has always haunted America because people do not adapt to changes well. "Change is taking place throughout the world," Gray said. "The Berlin Wall came down . . . U.S. economic power is challenged by the Pacific rim. By the 21st century, America will be one-third minority. You can't deal with the problem of racism without adapting to the change." Gray then discussed how the American dream is not a reality for Asians, blacks, Hispanics and women, because these groups do not have an equal opportunity to achieve what they want. Gray said if all Americans had the same opportunity, competition between them would increase and would create a "stronger America." But he said this is not the case. Gray emphasized that education is the key to equalization, adding that that is why he left his post as House Majority Whip to become head of the UNCF. Later in the lecture, Gray said America is reverting back to the politics of the 1940s. He stated that current politicians still must use the "Southern strategy" of wooing the South by using racism to get the votes. He said President Ronald Reagan used such a strategy and David Duke is doing it right now. He also said there is a misconception that minority groups, specifically blacks, are placing a high cost on society because they are the ones receiving most of the welfare. "Whites on welfare voted for David Duke . . . people don't want to acknowledge that because of race," Gray stated. "Most of the people on welfare are white." But Gray added that American politicians have covered up this political regression by using "politically correct" words. "It's a return to the 1940's politics, but sugar-coated," he said. Gray also deemphasized the issue of racial quotas in "white universities," noting that only three percent of scholarships are based on race. Gray said that Secretary of Education Lemarr Alexander's proposal to eliminate race-based scholarships is "not a problem" to the UNCF because it is more integrated than many universities. He added that 11 percent of the UNCF scholarship recipients are white. But on the whole, he said, he is "worried" about the emphasis placed on race when it comes to scholarships. Gray concluded his lecture by saying that, all in all, America has progressed on the issue of race. "I'm living proof," he said. Most of the over 70 students at the speech said they enjoyed it and agreed with Gray's decision to accept the presidency of the UNCF instead of pursuing the position of Speaker of the House. "Through his success in Congress, William Gray has shown his ability to help any organization to be successful," said College freshman Bradley Tusk. "It was a loss for the country, but he is where he is most needed," said United Minorities Council Chairperson You-Lee Kim.

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