Students lead a sit-in
Wednesday, February 20, 2008; 12:00 AM

Correction: Because of the high number of abusive comments on this story, commenting has been disabled. You can still submit a letter to the editor by e-mailing opinionseditor@collegiatetimes.com.

A student led a sit-in demonstration yesterday during a biology class in Torgerson 2150 in protest of an incident that happened on a prior test day. Brittany Tennyson, a junior psychology major, said that she felt discriminated against because of her race when the instructor handed out the tests to her row.
Josh Miller / SPPSBrittany Tennyson sits in protest of teacher racism.

On the day of the test, Mary Lipscomb, the instructor of the biology class, handed the tests out in piles to the students sitting nearest to the aisle in each row. In Tennyson's row, which consisted of about five black students sitting at the beginning of the row, she handed the tests out individually. The tests were color-coded to make it harder for students to cheat.

Tennyson said she felt the instructor handed them out individually to make especially sure that the two different tests were alternated among the students.

"She went out of her way to make sure she distributed them evenly," said Tennyson. "To some people it wouldn't seem like a big deal, but I felt offended; I felt discriminated against."

Lipscomb said that she distributed the tests differently to Tennyson's row because it was in the center.

"It was a coincidence that it was Brittany's row that needed extra tests, but that is the way I pass them out in any situation," Lipscomb said. "It had nothing to do with who was sitting there."

Tennyson said that she could not concentrate on taking her test because she felt she and her friends were singled out, so she took Lipscomb aside and confronted her. Lipscomb explained herself and told Tennyson that she could take the make-up exam if she was having trouble focusing, Tennyson said.

"What I wanted was an apology and she didn't seem apologetic at all," Tennyson said.

After Tennyson took the make-up test, she confronted Lipscomb again and said that she would be speaking with her organization, the Serendipity Activists, and "will get the situation handled."

Tennyson decided to hold the demonstration after she heard that other students felt the same way about being discriminated against in various classes at the university. The demonstration consisted of the protesting students sitting in the first two rows of the biology class.

Lipscomb said that she did not have a problem with the demonstration taking place in her class.

"I was taken aback because I had no warning, but other than that it is fine," Lipscomb said. "Some students left in the middle of class, which was a little bit disruptive, but other than that I had no problem with it."

Tennyson also participated in a demonstration in early October against the Blacksburg Police Department protesting the treatment by the police of a black student who was allegedly pepper sprayed and forcefully arrested. She also helped create the Facebook group, "Justice for Jaz," for the protest.

Tennyson said that the latest demonstration was meant to convey that racism won't be tolerated any longer.

"The goal of this event is to empower the student body and to get the point across to all students of all colors that something can be done," said Tennyson.

Lipscomb said that she had no intention of hurting Tennyson's feelings and wasn't trying to single her out.

"To any other students in their situation I would have done the same thing," said Lipscomb about distributing the tests. "There was no ill intent on my part at all."

Synethia Toms, a junior political science major, participated in the demonstration yesterday and also participated in the "Justice for Jaz" protest along with Tennyson. Toms and Tennyson have been working together "fighting against institutionalized racism" at Virginia Tech and have done research together, which has included getting student accounts of racism in the classroom, Toms said.

"We feel that that (the research) is very important to us so we can have an inclusive environment for everyone," said Toms. "This is not an isolated incident; this is something that happens every day to us as a group."

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Posted by: A mediating voice at 2/22/08 This is a very sensitive topic. As a member of the Black community, I have witnessed racism here at VT, but never from a faculty member. I know other Black Americans that had Dr. Lipscomb and thought that she was a very nice proffessor who treated them with a lot of respect. Because of this, many Black people opposed this sit-in. I personally was not there when Ms.Tennyson felt discriminated against so I can only speak from what I know about the situation. I feel that Dr. Limpscob's actions were latent, not mean to offend anyone. Even if she did, I feel that Ms. Tennyson's action's were to drastic. Ms. Tennyson's choice to confront Dr.Limpscomb should have been enough. However, racism here at VT is present and I feel that Ms. Tennyson and her group just felt that Dr. Lipscomb actions was the "last straw". There has been so many times I was discriminated against but I responded in a more passive manner. For example,I was called the "N-word" by a person from the corp of cadets as I walked past the drillfield. I knew I was not that word so I kept walking. I also had Bio lab and me and a friend of mine we were the only Black people in the class. Every time we would add our opinions we would be ignored. We didnt make a big deal about it we just did our work. When the our lab partners noticed that we got A's on everything, they came around. There are subtle ways you can protest, not everything should be made into an uproar. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Bryan Thurston at 2/22/08 I was in this class when the "incident" happened and also when the "sit in" happened. All of the tests were color coded and were passed out in a way to prevent cheating. The simple fact that the girl retook the exam because she was feeling so "stressed" that she could not focus should point out the fact very clearly the case was not incredibly blown out of proportion because of racism but because someone obviously was not prepared for the test. I continued to get baffled by the actions of desperate people because they are not prepared they had plenty of time to work on. I didn't do as well as I wanted on the test either can i retake it, because I was distracted because my test was blue and not white? No, of course I can't retake it because I did not raise and incredibly large and useless stink over absolutely nothing. I was distracted while taking notes during the "sit in", which obviously just entails walking around the classroom while wearing black and leaving in the middle of class, but not before throwing a fist in the air to show the man. This whole thing is ridiculous. I have a lot of respect for Mrs. Lipscomb, and the only little bit of respect I have lost for her during this so-called ordeal is that the student was allowed to retake the test. Finally, unless you were in the class and saw what happened, don't even open your mouth because if you are dumb enough to believe anything you read in the paper or see on TV than you should not be allowed to speak. This was someone who wanted attention and got it. She is even getting it from me, so she must have done something right. So here's the moral of the story kids, "Act like a baby and make mountains out of every molehill and you will get attention and people maybe will remember your name." So lets all go out there and try to get test grades and publicity handed to us by complaining and bellyaching over getting a different colored test, which by the way I got too, a white man, well how weird is that. I obviously was discriminated against too so I guess all I have to say now is. Mrs. Lipscomb can I retake the test? Flag Abuse
Posted by: Sad Hokie at 2/21/08 After reading the majority of these comments I am honestly sad to be a Hokie. I only wished that the institution that I chose to get my higher education from would be more enlightened. OK, she felt discriminated against so she acted, end of story. Too many people get discriminated against or feel they have been and keep it to themselves, that is not going to make anything better. No matter how I feel about the situation she did what she felt she had to do. I am not going to pass judgement on her (Brit), the situation, or the teacher because I was not there as most of the people who commented were not also. I just think its sad that too many people took this as time to throw personal shots at that young lady, I do not feel that was called for. Racism does exist, thats it. When someone is used to or has been made aware in a tragic way of their differences there will always be a higher level of sensitivity. Not everything done to a person of color is racism and I state that as a Black **gasp** woman. But some are. We do not live in a "color blind" society so people see and recognize race its a part of life now, it happens. I would only hope that one day it wont matter so much. The levels of anger expressed in these comments proves that race is still a touchy subject, but lets use this energy for something positive. If someone hurts your feelings or says something you do not care for say something but there is no need to be rude about it or throw personal shots at them, it puts you on the same low level that they are on, the anti movement. Please refrain from making rude/nasty/sarcastic/ect. comments in response to mine, thank you. Flag Abuse
Posted by: ME at 2/20/08 You have got to be kidding me. I have personally been present in a Lipscomb class and she does exactly the same thing to all students sitting in difficult rows. When there isn't enough tests she passes them down the rows not in a pile but as single tests to ALL COLORS of students. And she has moved the TA out of the way beforehand to pass tests out; it's not a new advancement. I guess we can almost safely say that the tests are about to be attacked as well seeing as they are white and some other color for the two different types. I don't think there should be any reason for her to be able to take the test for a second time because she "couldn't concentrate" on the first one. Personal matters should never be brought into a testing situation anyways. Had her boyfriend broke up with her and she was distressed would she have had the opportunity to take another test? No of course not because it's ridiculous. You would think that the admirable and smart thing to do was to get an A on the exam and prove someone you believed to be racist wrong. Lipscomb is definitely a fair teacher and would never discriminate against someone. She has the same habits with all students in the testing environment. Is it so bad that she hates cheating enough to individually pass out tests? Also, why would she apologize for something she didn't do? Personally, I don't think we should be attacking the character of Tennyson and calling her names. She may have interpreted the situation correctly but that doesn't really give anyone the right to verbally abuse her. Additionally, I don't understand why she would ever try to bring THIS up as a matter of great importance. I think the fact that it's black history month is making people a little on edge with the racism ideals. Fight the real fights and give up on lame acts like this. If you're going to actually have a protest, make it for something worth having and don't just sit in the front where you'll learn better. Furthermore for the other commenters, I have been discriminated against even though I'm white. Sexism is also a battle too but you don't see anyone blowing hot air about that. Everyone has been discriminated against so don't start blabbing about nobody understanding racial discrimination when gender is something you don't choose either. As for the TYLENOL, everyone that works there never looks up. They're bored sitting there operating a cash register, they do it all the time. JB, she may have taken the test at the same time but she also took it again when other people weren't. I didn't vote bush and personally don't care for him. Thanks for yet again conveying the "All people of one race think the same card." Congratulations! It's people like you who think it's still the 60's that cause things like this to get blow out of proportion and the real battles then become less significant. Slightly amused has just fallen off the edge with JB thinking that it's the small things that are gonna get the world somewhere. And how dare you call Rosa Parks sit in something that people like as a waste of time. I'm not sure how you ever came to the conclusion that it was something people like as a waste of time. She also was not trying to prove any point and still became an icon. Learn you're facts before you run your mouth about things. Racism does still exist, nobodies denying that, however, people need to stop imagining racism and fight the people that are still calling strong black men "boy" and telling women to not worry their pretty little head about real matters. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 I hope they are keeping up with their academics for that class (and others) while they protest and cause an uproar. Wouldn't want to have to resort to cheating for another test. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Greg at 2/20/08 Is this from The Onion? Flag Abuse
Posted by: MC at 2/20/08 Wouldn't it just have been easier to study for the test? Flag Abuse
Posted by: Mike at 2/20/08 Ok so then your just activists. Interesting group, I'm an activist too. Guess if I accidently bump into your group I can join. WOO!! Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 The group met each other accidentally, and we're all brought together by chance. Hence, Serendipity. Flag Abuse
Posted by: To at 2/20/08 We can't comment because we weren't there? I disagree because we have the facts in front of us. If I wrote an article in the CT about how you are bigot and you got one quote in saying you weren't then I'd suspect you'd be pretty upset with the lack of details that border on slander and many of your friends would be too. The people read this article and can get a good idea that this person has no credibility and is full of bs. You don't go implying someone is a racist when you have no evidence. As for your perceived mistreatment, it is crazy and paranoid that you think everyone is out to treat you differently. Ever think the person telling you about the Tylenol is having a bad day or is naturally mean? Ever wonder if you get looks because one of you is attractive thus really being a positive look? Why does your mind immediately think race is the reason for reactions of others when you have no evidence of this? You presume racism until proven otherwise. This is called prejudice...you prejudge someone before knowing the truth. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 In response to, "If white people would get just as angry when blacks are facing racism, as they do when blacks fight back against racism, the world would be a better place. Why is there more passion present when minorities fight against racism, than when minorities experience racism?" Maybe having every move analyzed is tiresome. Maybe its not fair to be accused of being racist just because one is white. Maybe I am tired of being made to feel guilty for a) being white and b) a social injustice that I had no part of nor do I support. African Americans assuming that some small insignificant act by a white person is meant to keep them down and then assuming that person must be racist is reverse racism. I can't blame the teacher for not apologizing. She did not feel she had done anything wrong and made arrangements for the student to re-take the test. I would say that is pretty sensitive to the student's needs and emotional distress. To schedule a sit in to protest an injustice that was not there is just annoying. I know there are race problems on this campus...are they really any worse than at any other college or university in the South? Or, are they any different than one would encounter in the work environment? If you continue to be overly sensitive, you will continue to be offended. We are not all out to get you and you are not at war with us. And I really hate it when I am told that I don't know what discrimination is. I am a woman working in a male dominated industry. I get discriminated against all the time. There is a freakin facebook group dedicated to getting women like me out of my profession for crying out loud. Also, is being compared as academically inferior to Asians racism? You think we don't encounter that…at an engineering college? I think someone, Ms. Tennyson, is trying to get all worked up over nothing. Pick and choose your battles wisely. The only thing you proved here is that the slightest move on the part of a white person will result in severe and harsh judgment. I would not say that is the dream that anyone had. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Appalled at 2/20/08 As a biracial female, I have witnessed racism and discrimination both covertly and overtly as well...FROM BOTH races. I am almost POSITIVE that everyone responding with such condescending tone and extreme judgements were not in the classroom when the incident originally took place. It may have just been an isolated incidence of the professor simply changing up her habits. Or it may have been a deliberate action taken because of the profesor's sometimes prejudice mindset. The point is, NO one was there. We don't truly know how the situation went down. We don't have nothing other than two people's side of the story. As a biracial student, I have been exposed to individuals that have been discriminated against one to many times that lash out from frustration. I have also witnessed individuals that have been sheltered from the world that minorities are far too familiar with. I have a dark skinned black boyfriend that does not see the disgusted looks and forced manners we are given by waitresses, store clerks, or even colleagues. To some, I appear to be white and walking hand in hand with a black man is in their opinion repulsive . I NOTICE IT. It's there. Its in their response when he asks which aisle can Tylenol be purchased, and they simply just point or mumble the answer without even looking up. My boyfriend? Doesn't notice it. He sees hearts and stars everywhere. So am I wrong? Am I being ridiculous that sometimes it hurts me. It hurts to know that something so simple as a glare or a ill-mannered citizen reminds me that I am different almost every day of my life. We all live on the same planet....But the reality of our worlds can be polar opposites. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Mike at 2/20/08 So Serendipity means to accidentally find something fortunate. Activist is someone who is actively involved in changing something in many cases. So your organization is an oxymoron because you are actively trying to accidentally discover good fortune! That says to me that you are race-baiting to "Accidentally" discover racism in everyday situations by just happening to be there and actively looking for it.....hmmmmmmmmm...... Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 Sounds like someone didn't study for their test and is looking for a way out of it! Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 This so-called incident trivializes the occurrences of discrimination in our society. It is a shame that it falls during Black History Month when we try to spotlight truly amazing Black Americans that have overcome real discrimination in our society. By "crying wolf" where there is no intent or discrimination, you impede progress for the overall mission. Flag Abuse
Posted by: MC at 2/20/08 I think she should be institutionalized... Flag Abuse
Posted by: Race Baiter at 2/20/08 So she has been "fighting against institutionalized racism" and just happened to experience some herself. Race-baiter, they name is Tennyson... Flag Abuse
Posted by: Sigh at 2/20/08 wow this is sad grow up people... Flag Abuse
Posted by: John at 2/20/08 Like so the other day I was in McDonalds with my black friend and we both order a large fry and he got 36 fries and I got 43. Can your organization help my friend fight the discrimination in McDonalds???? Flag Abuse
Posted by: Hey Kids at 2/20/08 ...Are you bored? Winter in Blacksburg got you down? How about accusing your professor of racism? It's loads of fun... Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 Once again, who edited this? Always great reporting from you guys at CT Flag Abuse
Posted by: Phil at 2/20/08 Man do all debates on the CT online get his crazy? and to JB wayyyy down below on the comments page, I'm white, and I am a huge fan of Obama! I am actually a partial conservative, but I believe he can turn this nation around, and change the global perspective on the United States, but that's an entire different discussion. Flag Abuse
Posted by: an unbiased person of color at 2/20/08 Please don't compare this protest to the Bus Boycott. Being told to sit in the back of the bus is a totally different situation then a teacher HANDING you a test. There are more SERIOUS issues the black community should address. Stop crying wolf so we can address them. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Brad at 2/20/08 Are you serious? Please print stories about real problems and not made up ones. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Joel at 2/20/08 Perhaps you have been raised with the belief that racism exists everywhere, and you look for it in every person's behaviors? That is precisely the ideal that is keeping alive racial divides; forcing people to act in a manner contrary to their normal mode of operation so as to not offend that delicate racial tension. I am not racist, I am not a bigot, and I am white. What more do you want? Suspecting every professor, or even the general populace of professors, of being racist is a step in the wrong direction. Again, there is no solid proof of racism or discrimination except your own perception, and perhaps you are a little too sensitive to realize that it is not racism or discrimination simply because one person is treated slightly different than another; it is likely another coincidence as happened with Professor Lipscomb. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 **reads article, shakes head, closes internet browser, cancels internet service, shuts down computer, unplugs it, puts in car, drives toward cliff, jumps out leaving computer, shoots gas tank before it sinks, sighs in relief Flag Abuse
Posted by: For at 2/20/08 I'm sorry, I would love to internalize your belief. But I cannot. [1] I do believe there is not a articulated consensus among professors to endorse a racist societal view. [2] I do believe there are racist social views internalized in the minds of professors. We aren't talking about go lynch'em racism, but subtle racism that occurs with the suspiscion of competency of blacks. [3] Since, I have never had the happenstance of reading material of non-existent societal racism, and you have not provided any, I cannot support this premise. [4] I for myself, being black, have the burden of a higher sensitivity such occurrences, by the sheer existence as a Black in America. So from my experiences, I do see and feel racism at Virginia Tech. Flag Abuse
Posted by: For: For Joel 3:58 at 2/20/08 For there to be defined institutional racism, then there must be policies supporting and encouraging racism. There are no such policies. Furthermore, there is no general ideal among professors to suggest that racism is a shared and accepting social viewpoint on the Virginia Tech campus. Arranging a sit-in to reform non-existent social views stands only to perpetuate the IDEA that racism exists, which from my vantage point is untrue. If I were to hear of or see a professor openly discourage a student from attending a class, say, then I might accept that racism persist on the campus and would fight to discourage said behavior, but there is no reason to suggest that racism exists based on the current state of matters. Flag Abuse
Posted by: For Joel 3:58 at 2/20/08 Yes there are laws enacted to mandate the school regard equality paramountly. But there was also a time, where there were laws to mandate voting for Blacks. In the South, they were lynched if they tried to vote. So the connection resides, If the mandate did not affect the individual's actions in this historic reality, than the mandate for equality at Virginia Tech does not consequently affect the individual teachers and faculty here. That can only be reformed by societal views. And this sit-in here is a means to reform societal views. Flag Abuse
Posted by: For:For 3:57 Blank at 2/20/08 I understand there may be an issue at hand, and I think it may be more appropriate to label it as inadvertent discrimination. It occurs within races as well. And as far as this being a battle against institutionalized racism, I think it may have been a better argument made in a situation that actually involved institutionalized racism. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Joel at 2/20/08 Again, there is no proof of policies within the institution that support or reflect racism. If this was an attack on the institution, then it was poorly managed and ill-advised, as such racism is nonexistent. Flag Abuse
Posted by: For 3:57 Blank at 2/20/08 I do not believe the teacher is a racist. I feel for her equanimity as well. But that does not negate the mental anguish of dealing with inadvertent racism. This was to battle institutionalized racism, NOT Lipscomb. Lipscomb is merely an extension of the institution. If somehow that was conveyed, may it be annulled. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Joel at 2/20/08 And in what manner has racism been exhibited at the institutional level? It is a state-mandated and state-sponsored institution mind, so all laws regarding equality and the like are in full effect in the institution. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 I can't get over how that teacher must feel, especially since there is a really good chance that she had no intentions of offending anybody. What is she supposed to do now to prove she isn't prejudice? She would have to overcompensate anyone that feels they may be discriminated against in some way. I guess I don't really understand how race became such a big issue in this situation? Flag Abuse
Posted by: For Joel at 2/20/08 This was against institutionalized racism. Not individual prejudice. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Joel at 2/20/08 I don't know how many times I've had to explain this to people, but racism is the belief that your race is superior to another, and as such, that you should exercise some form of rule over said race. There is NO exhibition of racism here, in even the smallest way. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Unkown Source at 2/20/08 If white people would get just as angry when blacks are facing racism, as they do when blacks fight back against racism, the world would be a better place. Why is there more passion present when minorities fight against racism, than when minorities experience racism? Flag Abuse
Posted by: Joel at 2/20/08 JB, I perceive you to be a racist and it will not be tolerated. Where do I set up my sit-in? In all seriousness though, you failed to address the issues at hand, such as the ideal that we nearly all have slavery and discrimination in our ancestry, the issue that the racial divide is being perpetuated by people with your attitude, and that not everyone that has posted here is white and ignorant, a matter that you seem to have ignored. Please address these concerns, and perhaps we can have an open discussion on the matter. Otherwise, your remarks will very likely be ignored or at best become the focus of some very true, albeit negative, critique. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Haha at 2/20/08 Calm down, it's just a misspelled words. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Allegiant All-Star at 2/20/08 Hey JB, there is nothing wrong with being emotional. Apparently when you're angry you must express it calmly. Flag Abuse
Posted by: JB at 2/20/08 Yeah we are throwing temper tantrums because it's people like you who do not hear us by just sweeping it under the rug. But we will continue to push for EQUALITY. Racism whether it is "perceived" or not IS NOT RIGHT AND WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. And to "HMMM" I was not addressing ALL whites my dear, just the ignorant ones who posted their ignorant thoughts such as:"you should have gone to Virginia Union where you could have been been with people who look just like you and get a biology degree worth about as much as a dental hygienist's certificate" and "The causes you are fighting for do not benefit a society/community or even a group of people." That is IGNORANCE at it's best. People like that Rosa Park's sit in was a waste of time. Only time will tell. That is all. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Kyle Minor at 2/20/08 Joel, interesting you should bring that up. A year or two a go, a high school senior who was white and had immigrated from South Africa applied for an African-American scholarship at a college. The student recieved the award, only to have it rescinded when he got to the school because the scholarship was "meant to be given to a Black kid." Sounds like a paramount example of racism to me. . . Flag Abuse
Posted by: Bruce Da Truth at 2/20/08 JB…No where in your argument rambling was there anything that could have been considered a logical or rational thought. Everyone reading your comments is now dumber. I awarded you no points and my God have mercy on your soul…I am as white as Obama. I am voting for Obama. And I still think Brittany Tennyson is full of bologna. I'm not, nor do I think anyone is arguing whether Ms. Tennyson felt discriminated against. I think the point really is Ms. Tennyson is going about it WRONG. As far as anyone one reading or educated on this matter is aware Ms. Tennyson is the only one that was affected by Dr. Lipscomb's method of handing out the exams. Ms. Tennyson has no grounds in which to claim that Dr. Lipscomb's actions were driven by racist tendencies. It's people like Ms. Tennyson that are driving the real educators away and at the same time labeling black people as instigators. Who wants to come to work and look over their shoulder everyday? Tippy toe around people afraid of people misinterpreting what they may say or a look they may give? If Ms. Tennyson had an issue with Dr. Lipscomb there are methods in which to go about addressing it. Uniting a campus and potentially a nation to revolt and put this educator on display is NOT what we as African Americans need. Ms. Tennyson's feelings of discrimination could in deed prove to have warrant, however her actions are completely premature. As for Ms. Tennyson, please do not compare yourself to Rosa Parks. Using rhetoric as if you were Barack Obama is not going to win the hearts and minds of people with half a brain. We tend to see through the BS. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Joel at 2/20/08 Kyle, about your "African-Americans" statement, I have a friend who is pale white and grew up in South Africa. That would make him an African-American as well, correct? Flag Abuse
Posted by: Kyle Minor at 2/20/08 An interesting thing just popped into my mind - Why do we insist, as a society, on referring to Black Americans as "African-Americans?" It seems fairly presumptive to assume that anyone with Black skin is necessarily from Africa. . . Flag Abuse
Posted by: another engineer at 2/20/08 hey JB you owe me an apology for that racist comment of yours when you said "My ancestors enslaved yours". Really?? I didn't know that when my family came over from ireland and was forced to work for almost nothing in NYC that they also had black slaves to help them out. This is interesting please find me the history site that told you that because I would love to see it. As for my German heritage, well I guess I'm a jewish hater then since you know Hitler was in Germany. Man I gotta go get rid of my jewish friends now, and they were such good friends. It is blanket statements like the ones you make that allow situations like this to be blown out of proportion. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Kyle Minor at 2/20/08 Pretty impressive spiel, JB. The thought of Barack Obama as President actually does make my skin crawl, but the reason has nothing to do with the color of his skin. IT actually has to do with the fact that he wants America to become a socialist state, and he wants the government to run my life. I don't think it's so unreasonable to be opposed to a political opinion that I find unnerving and dangerous, even if the candidate happens to be of a different race than myself. And you're right, Ms. Tennyson does in fact have a Constitutionally protected right to free expression. What she does NOT have is a Constitutionally protected right to never be offended. As I pointed out in a previous post, the fact that the professormade accomodations and allowed Ms. Tennyson to take the test at another time demonstrated a deference to Ms. Tennyson's accusation of racism - not an admission that the action was racist, but an admission that (in hindsight) the testing conditions precluded the fairness assumed within the student's expectations of her rights. As a result, she was offered the opportunity to take a make-up exam at a different time. I'm not exactly sure how advocating that position necessarily qualifies as 'racist.' Incidentally, the fact that I am caucasian does not in any way disqualify me from having an opinion on racism or the status of race relationsions in the United States. As a US citizen, and as a human, I am entitled to comment on the progress (or regress) seen in the culture around me. Discrimination, remember, occurs in various shapes and sizes - it occurs during a playground game of football, when you choose teams (the less athletic kids are discriminated against because they are less valuable to the task at hand), it occurs when you get dressed in the morning (which shirt do you wear?), and it even occurs in the classroom (the students who put forth greater effort to learn and understand are rewarded with higher grades and more opportunities to excel). If, JB, you are looking for a society which covets blanket equality above all else, I recommend you check out the short story "Harrison Bergeron." Flag Abuse
Posted by: Joel at 2/20/08 JB... were you enslaved? How about your family? Anyone you know? By your logic, I should be protesting in England for the enslavement and abuse of my ancestors. In fact, many people who have ties in the Mediterranean have some form of slavery in their ancestry. The flaw in your logic is that the body of your peers that you take issue with did NOT enslave YOU. In addition, perceived racism is NOT racism, it is PERCEIVED. Following your logic again, I believe you were "racist" against my people, and I feel an apology is in order. Otherwise, please stop falling back on the ideal that you are being treated unfairly, because in the areas that I have grown up, it is common for white people to have to exercise caution in actions and speech so as to specifically avoid offending any particular ethnicity. Stop bringing up race as a factor, and you may see racial lines disappear entirely. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Out of control at 2/20/08 People like JB is all that is wrong with this world. You will never get anywhere with your "woah is me" speeches and tirades. Your posts seriously sound like a 5 yr old throwing a temper tantrum. Flag Abuse
Posted by: YEEAAAA at 2/20/08 Personally, I like it when teachers hand me my test. Most of the time, a simple THANK YOU is in line..at least until the grades get back Flag Abuse
Posted by: another engineer at 2/20/08 To slightly amused first, your actually right I don't call them African-americans...I'm racist right....wrong I call them Black you know why? Because I call them black and I call me white, I don't call myself a Irish-German-American. By ignorantly assuming that all white people call black people the "N" word, which by the way I HATE, is being very hypocritical. Next to the blank named hypocrite who says come out and face her in person, yet doesn't put a name for themselves, get over yourself and do some growing up as well. I would happily face this Tennyson in person and tell her that she is WRONG in this situation. I would support her if her accusations are true. In this case I think she is totally blowing this out of proportion. Flag Abuse
Posted by: student at 2/20/08 I've taken two sections of Lipscomb's classes. I wasn't really a fan of the bio classes, but hey I'm not a science major. Anyways, she was always hardcore about cheating. I remember when we would not have enough tests for a row that she would walk over and make sure all the colors alternated. Our tests were always bright blue, green, etc. This is nothing to take offense about. Flag Abuse
Posted by: hmm at 2/20/08 JB, take it easy..to take any sort of comment out of context like you have in your post is very ignorant. As a minority, for you to accuse all white people of such allegations is embarrassing..Grow up and show your fellow Hokies a little bit of respect. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Joel at 2/20/08 Racism: a belief or doctrine that inherent differences among the various human races determine cultural or individual achievement, usually involving the idea that one's own race is superior and has the right to rule others. Bigot: One who is strongly partial to one's own group, religion, race, or politics and is intolerant of those who differ. I see no acts of racism or bigotry here... clear intolerance? Right to rule? If anyone is singling a person out by race, it is Tennyson, who seems to be searching for racism and bigotry, and as such took advantage of a seemingly random occurrence that may -possibly- be perceived as "racist". If you look keenly enough for the characteristics of a thing, you will eventually find it somewhere. As it stands, Professor Lipscomb did absolutely nothing that could be considered intolerant, and as such is not a "racist". Flag Abuse
Posted by: wow at 2/20/08 Wow i just cannot believe this... im sick of people doing this stuff man Flag Abuse
Posted by: JB at 2/20/08 This incident WAS NOT about whether or not A STUDENT- whether it was a Brittney or a John, BLACK OR WHITE- studied for the test and/or was seeking an opportnity to take a makeup exam. FIRST OF ALL, she took the exam at the SAME TIME as her classmates. So get the facts straight before you go assuming that the BLACK girl didn't study. SECONDLY, everyone who has commented negatively about her protest is OBVIOUSLY WHITE and has NEVER BEEN discriminated against. You George Bush voting a-holes probably THINK it's ok to treat people this way but IT'S NOT. You like to sweep it under the rug by saying we're pulling the "race card" when you have been pulling it for 300+ years!!!!!!!!!!! YOU ALL obviously feel that the white race has higher privilege to do things like this to minorities. STOP THE MADNESS already. If she felt discrimintaed against, it's her RIGHT -as stated in the US CONSTITUTION- to SPEAK UP ABOUT IT. AND REGARLESS of what that teachers INTENTIONS WERE, good or bad, Britney still felt discriminated. Intentions only go as far as you convey them. But I guess because she covered her actions up with her INTENTIONS it made it ok. If Blacks never stood up for crap like this, we'd still be sitting on the back of the bus, not voting, at separate schools, no Black History Month, NO rights. However, if it were up to you ignorant ass people, Blacks would still have NOTHING. I bet Obama running for President has got your skin crawling. WE ARE NOT your servants anymore that you can just whip and shut us up.We're far past those times but after viewing those RACIST ass comments,I see, we still have a lot more to accomplish. GET IT TOGETHER! Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 This post is for SLIGHTLY AMUSED. You, my friend, are ignorant and racist. Reading your post made me think of the pot calling the kettle black. No one said anything about racist not existing at VT or in this country. Referring to asians as basically white just proves that you are a hypocrite and should not be posting anything on this website. Flag Abuse
Posted by: IrishOne at 2/20/08 Dr. Lipscomb once made me throw out some french fries that I was eating during class. Even though she KNOWS that potatoes are a staple of my people. Typical Brit, just perpetuating the oppression of me and my people. I'm sick of it. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Bruce Da Truth at 2/20/08 Ms. Tennyson and her following are fools. All this commotion is producing is more hatred and discomfort. I said it once, I'll say it again and I would tell it to Ms. Tennyson's face (for the non-believers), PICK YOUR BATTLES WISELY. Months ago your "Serendipity Activists" group stands behind "Jaz" claiming he was discriminated against by law enforcement during a party, which there isn't any question in my mind that he was probably being unruly and uncooperative. Now you are claiming that this teacher racially discriminated against you and your friends by handing your exams to each of you individually and then handing out the exams to the rest of the class in groups. The causes you are fighting for do not benefit a society/community or even a group of people. Your arguments may seem to benefit your little world in Blacksburg VA, but you have no idea of the damage that is being done to legitimate arguments Nation wide. On another note, consider renaming your organization as well. A positive word followed by a negative connotation only works for groups like "Neo Nazi". Not comparing your organization to hate mongers, but "Activists" is not a word I would chose if I was looking to promote a good thing like SOCIAL EQUALITY. Just a thought. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Kyle Minor at 2/20/08 There is plenty of REAL racism in the world; at least, certainly enough that we don't need to go around creating instances of racism in order to make it more apparent. From the facts presented in the article, it seems as though the professor made a good-faith effort to correct the situation - the student was unable, for whatever reason, to concentrate on the test. The fact that the professor allowed the student to take a make-up exam is a de facto recognition of the fact that her actions made the student uncomfortable, and the allowance for a 'special circumstances' retest is tantamount to an apology for causing undue distress. Short of paying reparations, I'm not too sure what else the professor could have done to remedy the situation - it just seems like the student is trying to manufacture an incident in order to propagate her cause. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 I have always been told your attitude creates your outcome. If you go into a situation with a positive attitude, you will most likely have a positive outcome. If you go into a situation expecting or looking to be discriminated against, then you will find a way to make any action into discrimination. This girl sounds like someone trying to get attention to her cause/beliefs, and I think she would have taken any action as discrimination to amke a show out of it. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 White people dealing with Racism...let me reflect on some situations. -The college admittance process, affirmitive action is something that white males have to deal with. It's not only college, it's in the job market as well. Which is why I am always for admissions to college should not have any race questions in it what so ever. Best qualified gets in, perdiod. Being on my high school basketball team. I was one of only two white kids on the team. I was heckled and ridiculed, called "white boy" called "cracker", they made fun of my haircut, the music I listened to, and the way I talked. I hardly took it to heart, it's just jokes. But you can say I was discriminated against. I know if it was the other way around, it would be a totally different story. Any time a white person partakes in something that predominantly black you'll get some heat. Whether it's attending a party, going to a concert, etc. Racism is there. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 There was no hostility or intimidation being used. The person said he would like to meet with people to talk about the situation. Where was the "intimidation"? White people can understand intimidation, I never said they couldn't, but what racism do they ever have to face day to day? Before anyone speaks, why don't they get the facts? Flag Abuse
Posted by: Brooke Miller MD Class of 1982 at 2/20/08 My comment has nothing to do about racism. I would like to comment on potential for cheating. Maybe the university should have an honor code that is clear cut and strict. Then teachers wouldn't have to worry about handing out separate tests! Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 I was a TA, I handed out many tests in Torg. Sometimes I would hand them individually to the students in some rows or perhaps I'd hand them a pile. I could not tell you who those students are or what color their skin was. My methods were more based on how the tests stuck together and how fast the tests were being passed out on the other side of the room. Racism exists both ways. In this case, I believe the protester is being racist against the professor. She's assuming because the professor is white that her actions must be catalyzed by the fact that she herself was black. Believe it or not (in reference to posts below) some white people do understand discrimination. Being a woman in a primarily male profession isn't a cakewalk either. You have to choose your battles carefully. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Response to Slightly Amused at 2/20/08 This whole situation is about racism, right?? I can't think of a comment like (and I quote) "Most of the teachers here are white or Asian, which might as well be considered white" being any more racist than that. And then he got a co-signer saying nobody has the courage to say it to her face and if they do name a time and place. A tell-tale sign of losing an argument is using intimidation and hostility to make a point. Trust me on this one guys, YOU ARE NOT HELPING HER CASE!! If I have read correctly, nobody is saying racism does not exist. There is just a level of uncertainty that this "incident" was racially motivated, especially with no hard evidence. It was only perceived and expressed as this by Ms. Tennyson, which everyone is entitled to their opinion. I would like to think people are not arguing this per se, just providing their own point of views and perspectives. Sometimes it is beneficial to be on the outside looking in so you can see things as a whole. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Phil at 2/20/08 Slightly Amused probably has the most racist post out of anyone here, oh the irony. Using racial slurs in an argument, Asian teachers "should be considered white"? I would love to see how that makes any sense to you. How can Asian people be considered white? Saying we (the whole white demographic at VT) a part of a Klan, wow. Nobody in this debate is sayin that racism doesn't exist in the world or even on this campus for that matter. What people are arguing is that in the sense they don't feel this is an act of Racism. If the professor was racist, I'm sure she wouldn't allow her a make-up test because she felt uncomfortable. And to the anonymous poster 2 comments below me, I would have no problem talking to Miss Tennyson about what happened in that classroom, and tell her how I feel about it when all the facts are presented to me. I have not made any racial comments or racial attacks in this debate. And I love if a white person has a black friend he is still racist...really? So how can a white person not be racist in your eyes? Honestly, your post is very ignorant, and I would be very embarassed if I was you. Flag Abuse
Posted by: BT at 2/20/08 People screamed "just go to the back of the bus" to Rosa Parks. Did she move? That is all. Flag Abuse
Posted by: You are not right at 2/20/08 Slightly Amused apparently is being a racist to show that racism still exists at VT. Good job, you and this Tennyson person have proved this to be true because of your own racist actions. I hope Lipscomb gets an apology and you two stop being bigots. It is sad that racism still exists and that it sometimes comes from those using race as a smoke screen. You hurt the battle for us all...as human beings. I am actually embarrassed that we have people like Tennyson at this university. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Suzie at 2/20/08 "Posted by: mitch at 11:30 am Well all the tests were colored weren't they? Maybe the wording offended you so you could not concentrate on mitosis or something. Clearly a case of discrimination. Get a life girl, perhaps you should have gone to Virginia Union where you could have been been with people who look just like you and get a biology degree worth about as much as a dental hygienist's certificate. No discrimination there, everybody is an idiot!" Wow for everyone who says racism doesn't exist at Virginia Tech, please explain the above post". While you may not agree with Britney's cause you have to respect her protest. She did not disturb the class and/or yell and aggitate anyone. She peacefully attended class in all black. She was upset because a TA was passing out the tests and the teacher came and took the tests from the TA to personally pass them out to this particular row. While there is no proof that it was racist she felt discriminated against. You cannot be mad at someone for speaking their mind. She approached the teacher and did not go to immediately taking action. She also did complete the test at the designated time with everyone else. She is a very accomplished student and it is unfair for ANYONE reading this article to just assume she did not study. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 I love how you think us having a diverse faculty/staff helps this situation at all. What was the point of bringing it up? Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 I don't think you will find anyone who doesn't see racism throughout the country, and possibly at VT, but being the oh so ignorant, blinded white person I am I guess I never saw it @ VT. However, in this case, Tennyson seems to have made much ado about nothing. She MADE this into racism, no doubt. Furthermore, while the student body might not be that diverse, we have a pretty diverse faculty staff. And if YOU can't see that maybe YOU should open your eyes. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 Slightly Amused, I couldn't have worded it better myself...at least YOU understand...and all of you who said Ms. Tennyson was making things up, would never have the courage to say that to her face, or any other person who believes there's an injustice...and if you do, seriously, name the time and the place, because I would really love to hear what you have to say...Seriously, don't have "e-courage"(courage to write on the internet) if you don't have the courage to back up what you say/believe in. Racism all over this country still exists, and you choose not to believe it because maybe, you have a black friend(or someone you work in a group with) and you think that's all you have to do not to be racist. Please grow up and realize exactly what the problem is. I would really love to have a group discussion with people who don't believe that we don't have racism, and people just make it up because "they're not ready for a test"... Flag Abuse
Posted by: american diaspora at 2/20/08 now i'm all for equality and justice; they oughta be inherent in our society, so hell yeah, let's work for it. but this is just a tad ridiculous. self-righteous indignation and hyper-attention only serve to exacerbate already controversial problems. initially, ms. tennyson may have felt discriminated against, but with the explanation and resulting opportunities offered by dr. lipscomb, how can one assume that her incredibly callous and judgmental fashion of test distribution was racially motivated? it seems more of a slight at ms. tennyson's character, not her skin color, as anyone who makes cubans out of swisher sweets like this is more after personal media exposure than advancing a cause. ms. tennyson's background in agitation and protest is admirable, and her causes correctly and justly followed, but here, i mean, come on. as a white kid growing up in africa, i sure felt discriminated against when wandering dirt streets when people hawking goods directed their business-oriented rants at me. i mean, who wouldn't? they just treated me like any other possible customer, and i resented it so fully, that i actually appreciated it. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Slightly Amused at 2/20/08 I'm pretty sure most of you all, while not white, are not of the African-American race. We go to Virginia Tech, a predominantly white school. YOU ALL don't see the same type of racism others such as Ms. Tennyson and other students all over campus experience because you all have this klan, excuse me, I mean this bonded group where you are protected from this type of stuff. What white teacher is going to be racist towards their own race? Most of the teachers here are white or Asian, which might as well be considered white. You are so naive, so blind. You know had it been on the other foot, if you were at a predominantly black school and the black teachers ALWAYS did something a little different for you than the rest of the students you'd be talking about how racist "These Niggers" are. And dont try to B.S. it and say you say "African-Americans" when you're laughing with Billy, Bob, Sean, and Jason. You all are saying Brittany and her group should pick her battles...Maybe you should take your own advice. You are all up here arguing about her not studying, which you dont know if she did or not. You are all up here defending the teacher, thats fine, but I'm pretty sure she can defend herself. All of you are saying there is no racism and/or discrimantion at VT, more specifically against BLACK people. OBVIOUSLY this is something she feels passionate about. Just like you all below me and maybe some to come above me, something was said and/or done before and it ignited something inside of her. Let her be. The situation happened, people learned from it and will continue to learn from it. Now let THAT go. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 I hope you know Dr. Lipscomb moved the TA out of the way to pass the tests to Miss Tennyson's row...just so you know... Flag Abuse
Posted by: Jason T at 2/20/08 Since we can't dissect Dr. Lipscomb's thoughts, we can only choose to believe or disbelieve her statements based on available evidence. For instance: does the layout of 2150 Torgerson verify that Lipscomb's claim is true: that it is difficult to pass out papers individually to all but a select few rows? What have other student witnesses noticed about her method for handing out papers? Does it vary each time, or is it consistent and methodical? Ms. Tennyson wanted an apology, but what she got was, I would argue, better. Lipscomb gave her a justification for the way the papers were handed out, and with it an implicit reassurance that the incident was not racially motivated, and an opportunity to take a make-up exam. The make-up exam seems like a good-faith gesture to give the student the benefit of the doubt. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Brit at 2/20/08 If you want to talk about "racism at its best" then why don't you look at what happened in this article... someone tried to pick apart a situation and turn it into discrimination. This girl needs to learn how to pick her battles. Feeling discriminated against and actually being discriminated against are two different things. The only thing Ms. Tennyson did here is take away credibility for her organization. She should be the one apologizing to her professor who will probably be uncomfortable teaching that class for the rest of the semester. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Kyle at 2/20/08 Instances like this just discredit those fighting against real racism. It's kind of like the little boy who cried wolf, this just makes people not take racism seriously when it does still exist. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Former Lipscomb Student at 2/20/08 ummm...I had Lipscomb 2 years ago and she always passed out tests in this manner. This is just an instance of someone looking for attention by making something out of nothing. Too bad this takes any credibility away from your "cause". This trick owes Lipscomb an apology. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 For this argument to be valid, Ms. Tennyson would have had to closely watch her professor pass out the tests to the entire class to verify that she and her friends were singled out. This would cause me to believe that she had a sneaking suspicion (most likely on some past experience) that Lipscomb was out to racially discriminate on her, ruling out ANY OTHER reason. Who can exactly say why Lipscomb passed out the tests like that? The answers are endless, so obviously race cannot be the only one. In my opinion, this was just a way for the Serendipity Activists to stay active. My advice to the group, learn to pick your battles because I really think you can identify and help rectify real problems on campus. Keep using irrelevant and unsubstantiated "incidents" to help support your cause and it will damage your organization's image. Flag Abuse
Posted by: another engineer at 2/20/08 whether she took the make up exam or not doesn't even matter. All that would change is the way I should have worded my comment. Here "It was unfair she was even presented the opportunity to take a make up exam." The only legitimate reason a teacher should EVER have for giving an individual student a make-up opportunity in the classroom the day of the test is if they just had a major death in their family or friends, and this would happen rarely because in that case the student would probably give the professor prior notice anyway and would never even show up to the test. What do you think a professor would say if a WHITE person walked up and said they felt discriminated against by the teachers method of passing out tests? I think they would say something like "Good one go sit down John" but that is just my opinion. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Mike at 2/20/08 Look at these responses.....Racism at its best..... Flag Abuse
Posted by: Bruce Da Truth at 2/20/08 First of all "Justice for Jaz" was a complete waste of time. This here is just another shining example of someone looking for a reason to pull the race card. It sickens me as a member of the African American community myself that everytime I turn around there is someone else using their race/color/gender/religion to get something they wouldn't have gotten in the first place. The old saying is "pick and chose your battles". This is one battle that was lost from the start. Ms. Tennyson has no basis for her arguement. She cannot prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that the teacher actively discriminated against her row because they were black. And even if she can prove that the teacher did indeed go out of her way to hand out those packets individually to her row, all that proves is that Ms. Tennyson was more focused on how the teacher delivered the test than the actual test. That means she would have had to watch the teacher go to each row, and observe how every packet was handed out. That is the act of a desperate person, it's malicious, and only proves that Ms. Tennyson was intentionally looking for a reason to get at this individual teacher. Even though this arguement is a pure waste of time, I hope some one does look into the matter and finds reason behind Ms. Tennyson's malice. Even if it's found that Ms. Tennyson is correct in her judgement, still doesn't change the fact that there a battles to be fought and this is not one of them. Just take your test and move on. Flag Abuse
Posted by: AJ Broadbent at 2/20/08 I can understand how feelings of injustice tend to surface when in the minority. Having been a victim of racism on a daily basis while living in a mostly Jamaican and Hasidic Jew neighborhood I know how this feels. I don't necessarily agree with the Ms. Tennyson on this particular situation but we all have to acknowledge the fact that racism in this country and in Blacksburg is an everyday occurrence. As a white man in Brooklyn I experience everything from being spit on by a black man to being straight up threatened with a gun. Just for being white. But what really affected me was the quiet, under the surface racism. The looks, the passing insults and the general feeling like I wasn't wanted. I think people who have grown up in the majority, like myself, should spend some time on the other side of the fence. Maybe we would have more empathy for one another if this were the case. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 To "an engineer as well"...read above. It says she took the exam then "confronted" Dr. Lipscomb who then gave her a make-up test..check your facts. Tennyson said that she could not concentrate on taking her test because she felt she and her friends were singled out, so she took Lipscomb aside and confronted her. Lipscomb explained herself and told Tennyson that she could take the make-up exam if she was having trouble focusing, Tennyson said. "What I wanted was an apology and she didn't seem apologetic at all," Tennyson said. After Tennyson took the make-up test, she confronted Lipscomb again and said that she would be speaking with her organization, the Serendipity Activists, and "will get the situation handled." Tennyson said that she could not concentrate on taking her test because she felt she and her friends were singled out, so she took Lipscomb aside and confronted her. Lipscomb explained herself and told Tennyson that she could take the make-up exam if she was having trouble focusing, Tennyson said. "What I wanted was an apology and she didn't seem apologetic at all," Tennyson said. After Tennyson took the make-up test, she confronted Lipscomb again and said that she would be speaking with her organization, the Serendipity Activists, and "will get the situation handled." Flag Abuse
Posted by: kate at 2/20/08 Dear Brittany Tennyson, The other day I was waiting for my sandwich in West End. I noticed the person working there was calling out the numbers and then handing the sandwiches to each person. When she called my number, she put the sandwich on the counter! She obviously did this because of my race. Can you get your serednipity activists to help restore some justice in West End? Thanks. Flag Abuse
Posted by: an engineer as well... at 2/20/08 I hope you think that Miss Tennyson didn't take a make up exam, she took the exam then and there, so you need to get your facts straight before you sit there with your opinions which are false... Flag Abuse
Posted by: another engineer at 2/20/08 Hey Cliff, ever think of all the other students in that classroom that were discriminated against when Miss Tennyson received extra time to study for a test? If I could walk up to a teacher and say the teacher upset me and then get extra time to study and have an unfair advantage on the test, heck I would've started a long time ago. Getting a make up test is the only injustice that happened here, injustice to the other students who took that test with less study time then Miss Tennyson. Flag Abuse
Posted by: unable to be discriminated against at 2/20/08 Because I am a white male, I am 'unable to be discriminated against.' Bull stuff. I have been told to my face that I wasn't good enough because I "am not [a certain race]." Yet what can I do about it, even at a public college? Nothing. I tried. But every time a person of color even THINKS they might be treated differently it must be because of their race. This is the reason we still have discrimination - people keep pointing out and saying they are different, but want to be treated like everyone else. Time to move forward. Flag Abuse
Posted by: gadi at 2/20/08 Here is a view from the instructor's side (and I do not know Dr. Lipscomb). I've been teaching large sections at VT for 25 years. I always have two forms of each test. I stack them in piles with the forms alternating A, B, A, B, etc. I pass the piles out (in stacks of 12). When a group of five (or less than 12) sits together, I have to break a pile and pass the test out individually. Perhaps this is what the student perceived as unjust: a caring faculty member. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Henry at 2/20/08 I'm shocked anyone would notice something like that. Maybe someone didn't study for the test. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Phil at 2/20/08 who said the people below you were white Cliff? She has a case like someone said below if she wasn't sitting in a row that has a nice walking aisle in front of it. But if theres an aisle in front of it, get over it. I've seen teachers/helpers pass tests out like that all the time. Might I add, who was the first person to realize the difference in color between rows? Tennyson, or the Professor? Maybe she should look at herself first on the issues of race. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 Oh really? You mean as a woman I've never been discrimnated against? Funny, because I have been...and I GOT OVER IT. Life goes on and while it's not fair...it goes on Flag Abuse
Posted by: another engineer at 2/20/08 well said engineer. well said. Flag Abuse
Posted by: engineer at 2/20/08 I dare you to approach an engineering professor and have them allow you to take a make-up test, because you "can't focus". If she was really discriminating against her, she would have said, "sit down and take the test, I don't care that you can't focus". Wait a second, a girl just looked at me. Maybe that's a case of s3xual harassment -- I FEEL DISCRIMINATED AGAINST BECAUSE I'M A MALE!! Wake up people! Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 I know one of the girls interviewed in this article and to say she likes to stir up controversy is an understatement. Most of my professors stood at the ends of rows to make sure the tests were given out properly...get over it. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Anonymous at 2/20/08 This is just ridiculous. These people have no right to tarnish Lipscomb's name with these far-fetched accusations. I'm glad Tennyson never got an apology - she doesn't deserve one. Flag Abuse
Posted by: ... at 2/20/08 I don't think the professor meant anything wrong here. If the tests were color coded...then what is the point of handing them out individually. If one test is green, and another test is orange, and another test is white, it would be really easy to see if someone took the wrong test. So what would be the point of her singly someone out? Flag Abuse
Posted by: Al Jolson at 2/20/08 I wonder what would happen if Tennyson got shorted on mashed potatoes at D2. Perhaps then she and her "Serendipity Activists" would stage another sit in. Probably not though, that would cost them some flex dollars. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Rev. Al Sharpton at 2/20/08 Well put Jesse. Let's play the race card again, fill our pockets and continue to use every possible opportunity to get on CNN, etc. to stir up more controversy over nothing. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Jesse Jackson at 2/20/08 This is a disgrace and a display of a racially motivated professor. I have no idea of what went on, but I feel I should add my 10 cents because I really need to bicker about anything that could possibly be seen as a racial motive. By no means was Miss Tennyson ill-prepared for her exam, she simply was profiled and discriminated against. I will be at your campus in a few weeks to stir up a ruckus. For the time being, watch out for the racist professors. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Dan at 2/20/08 Were they in the front or back center rows? I know profs usually hand them out individually there because it is not difficult. However, if she flat out crawled her way through a center aisle--I mean, come on.. its annoying to do it as fellow students, that room is so tight. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Bob at 2/19/08 Their form of protest was to sit in the front two rows of class. This was a great display of civil disobedience. I bet they even showed up on time and took good notes. Flag Abuse
Posted by: Fred at 2/19/08 Much ado about nothing here! Mary Lipscomb is a hard, but fair instructor, without any pretense of discriminatory action about her. These students are just looking to make a name for themselves and embark on careers of becoming professional agitators. Flag Abuse






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