Panel to discuss state of local race relations

Students interested in doing something about racism on campus can attend a panel discussion today at 8 p.m. in room 210 of the Florida Gym.

The panel includes sociology professor Joe Feagin, African-American community activist Charles Bullock, art graduate student Keith Smith and Rahim Reed, assistant dean of the College of Law and director of the Center for the Study of Race and Race Relations.

The panel will discuss the state of racism on campus and in Gainesville and then will open the floor for student questions.

"What we're hoping to facilitate is having the students ask for advice, in a sense, of where to start," said Marzieh Pritchard, president of the UF Baha'i Club, which is sponsoring the event. "We know racism exists, but what can we do?"

The club is a religious organization that promotes the unity and equality of all people, Pritchard said.

Members of the faith believe in "progressive revelation," that is, that God has sent down to Earth a progression of prophets - including Abraham, Moses, Jesus, Buddha and Baha'u'llah, among others.

These prophets' spiritual teachings are valid and share a common theme - love, Pritchard said. She said members of her religion do not try to convert others but want to promote equality throughout the community.

"Action - that's the big thing," she said. "We're trying to promote an active campus against racism."

Staff Report

(10/29/98)