In response to, as an IU alum living in the South, I often hear about the political correctness of removing such symbols of historic fact, tradition and heritage, such as “Rebel” mascots or Confederate flags. While some of the ideals that those symbols may represent are not enlightened, there is no disputing the fact that they are a significant part of history, some of which is good and honorable. Should we deny the past and remove any symbol that represents ideals with which we disagree? If so, then let’s remove all signs of Christianity as it represents the Crusades. Same for the Jews and the Muslims. Let’s abolish all things Middle Eastern, German, Japanese, English, American Indian, Chinese, Mexican or Spanish. Gays and gay-bashers. For all of those represent current or historical views which certainly are not in step with today’s America. For that matter, half of America disagrees with the other half on most issues and would not be able to agree on what is “best.”
When I started to write this note, I was writing to agree. But as I thought through it, it seems like a very slippery slope. Racism is ugly and brings with it a long history of ugly. Let’s not ignore it, or we’ll forget it. My suggestion would be to add a plaque underneath the Wildermuth sign, as a tribute to Coffee, and tell the story of his role in the integration of IU, in the context of the story you just wrote.
Agree with me or not – I applaud your column, and am glad you raised the issue to the attention of folks today. I graduated 22 years ago, and I never knew the “rest of the story.”
Martin Coyne
Alumnus
