Remembrance and Reconciliation

How Being a Scottie Gives You a Voice in the Very Important Conversation of Race, Justice, and Reconciliation               

     Like many educational institutions in America, Agnes Scott has not always been open, accepting, or hospitable to minorities. While this historical fact makes Agnes similar to many other colleges and universities, our outstanding effort towards reconciliation is what sets us apart.  In 1965, when the ban on admitting Black students was lifted and the first African American woman, Gay Johnson McDougall, was admitted, there were still many changes that needed to be made in order to make Agnes a comfortable learning environment for minorities.  Consequently, Gay Johnson McDougall chose to leave Agnes Scott in 1967. Since then Agnes Scott has acknowledged it shortcomings, offered an honorary degree to Gay Johnson McDougall in 2010 and made necessary changes to become the inclusive multicultural institution we are today. However, the great part is that Agnes Scott doesn’t stop there, with events such as the Gay Johnson McDougall Symposium, we continually press for race, justice, and reconciliation. Through the symposium, students have the opportunity to engage in the conversation about the future of racial, social, and equality during panel discussion with Gay Johnson McDougall and others. We are encouraged to reflect on the progress made over the years during the Inferfaith Reflection and Statements of Reconciliation Ceremony. As a student that participated in both events, I can say that it’s a great feeling to be part of an institution with such a rich history and commitment to being a force in the advancement of race and social justice worldwide.