How Would You Respond to this Scenario?
 

Students are analyzing Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcom X' beliefs on dealing with oppression. The teacher asks the question, "Whose opinion would the 2003 America agree with in terms of dealing with oppression?"

Student A (a black student) responds: "Malcolm's, because today no one is going to get hit someone and then not do anything about it. The nonviolent way didn't resolve anything. Look at the problems we have today."

Student B (a white student) responds: "What do you mean it didn't resolve anything?"

Student A responds: "I mean look, we got all of these problems and we still aint equal. We still not treated the same."

Student B responds: "(mumble) ...that's why they [black people] get checks."

The class is in an uproar. Some students start shouting responses while others immediately raise their hands to respond.

How do you, the teacher, respond?

After you get the class under control.

The teacher should ask...

(Since this is the last day, that would be his or her homework assignment over the break).

Student A: 1. Identify and research the "problems", then offer an educated solution.

Student B: Ask Student B to research the history of "checks" "hand-outs" in the United States and how that has to do with equality, etc.

Both students can research Malcolm and Martin and compare and contrast both positions.

This assignment is due on January 5, 2004. This report must be typed and presented to the entire class.

:D

Excellent idea AKA2D '91!!!! On my campus the Black Student Union has been writing letters to the editor of our school newspaper in reference to Affirmative Action. A white student feels that since Black students get "checks" and "hand-outs" to fund their education they should not have special kudos when it comes to placement in school. There have been references made about the celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday and the fact that we (Black people) get a whole month to celebrate our history!!!! So, to calm things down certain professors are going to head forums that deal with this situation next semester (fall semester ended on 12-18-03).