I want to start by saying that it pains me to give this topic more attention than it’s already gotten, knowing that it is the organization’s very intention, but the issue is too important to ignore. This week, Kutztown University’s campus fell victim to the work of a white supremacist group called Identity Evropa (IE). Posters were placed in various locations on campus, presumably by KU students who are members of this group or by members who are attempting to recruit college students (or both). The posters say things like: United We Stand, Protect Our Heritage, Serve Your People, and Let’s Become Great Again. The phrases are accompanied by photos of traditional marble sculptures, all males.
The interesting thing about their propaganda is that they use inclusive terms like “our” and “we” but the very basis of their message is exclusion. They are attempting to make racism and discrimination less about hate and more about uniting the white European race. Which, of course, is ridiculous. Hate is still hate, even if you try to disguise it as pride. (Maybe some of the IE members need to retake the third grade and be reminded of the true history involving their race, this land and those who occupied it long before Europeans immigrated here).
When I first learned about this incident, it was hard for me to comprehend. I couldn’t, and still can’t, understand how there are people in this world, in this country, on my campus that believe in something as ridiculous and horrifying as white supremacy. It’s impossible to ignore the nagging thought that a discriminatory organization like this wouldn’t be gaining so much stamina if it weren’t for the bigot sitting in the Oval Office right now. One of IE’s posters reiterates Trump’s campaign slogan, “Make America Great Again,” and their website wants to tell us about the “merits of a border wall.” So, to those Trump supporters that deny racism as the motive for their vote, consider those who share the same candidate as you—and if that thought does not make you uncomfortable, then there’s more work to be done than I anticipated.
KU’s President Hawkinson did eventually email a statement to the students, faculty, and staff expressing that the actions of this organization do not reflect the university’s views. I specifically appreciated him addressing the issue of free speech, which will inevitably be used to defend this organization: “While we must keep in mind that all individuals have the right to free speech on our campus, our university rejects all forms of racism, bigotry and discrimination,” Hawkinson said. If you are a Kutztown student who is shocked and scared, try to remember this distinction. Many Kutztown students pride themselves on this university’s high level of diversity and social acceptance, myself included. We must all hold our university to this standard and keep it there.
This news should not be taken lightly considering this is happening on campuses all over the country. Racists are rising. This incident should encourage those who disagree with the views of such an organization to make their voices heard. Do not fall silent to the moral minority. My advice is to express your concern, keep standing up for yourself, and fight for those who have less privilege than you.