We are entering a truly exciting time for Dartmouth for multiple reasons. The College's deeply entrenched faults have been unapologetically exposed and those who seek change are refusing to keep quiet. Philip Hanlon assumes his presidency this summer and brings with him a fresh perspective and a potential for innovation in tackling these issues. Members of the faculty, some of whom were previously ignorant of and fairly indifferent to Dartmouth's problematic culture, have flocked to monthly meetings and, in doing so, have demonstrated the desire to enact meaningful reform.
One of the most notable initiatives proposed by the faculty is the implementation of a mandatory course that would function as a means of combatting problems such as racism, sexism, classism and homophobia. The course would replace one the of physical education requirements for graduation. I honestly could not be more supportive of such an initiative. Though I do not know the exact form of the course as intended by the faculty, I do know the issues and materials that I would like such a class to confront.
For the majority of Dartmouth students, college is the first time that they have the opportunity to coexist with people of a variety of races, ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds in a small, tight-knit community. Rather than self-segregating and retreating into groups of like-minded peers, students should be pushed to interact and learn about each other's experiences, especially as they relate to these divisive factors. The proposed course should enable students to have these important conversations and gain exposure to and an appreciation for perspectives different from their own. Such a dialogue would also allow members of different groups to put forth complex life stories that challenge and defy common stereotypical terms such as "the black experience" and "white privilege," thus complicating pre-conceived notions of different races, ethnicities and social classes.
This course should also encourage students to analyze socially constructed notions of gender and challenge them to see how these norms influence their individual, everyday lives. It is by doing so that they can free not only themselves but others from harmful and restrictive societal standards. Students should be exposed to feminist literature to better understand the fight against these standards and realize their own obligation to take up the cause, whether on campus or beyond. Above all, an emphasis must be placed on tolerance and non-judgment as means of protecting the rights of others to feel comfortable choosing and honing their individual interests, pursuits, sexuality and sexual orientation. Finally, a comprehensive course such as this must strive to educate students about sexual assault and the ways in which Dartmouth and our country perpetuate rape culture.
I fully acknowledge that many students will not be enthusiastic about the implementation of a mandatory class that revolves around social justice. Some will be quick to denounce it for pushing an alleged "liberal agenda," but I maintain that exposure to different students' perspectives and the literature that serves to enhance understanding of such perspectives is hardly political indoctrination. Others will complain that such a course is a waste of time and will perhaps find yet another excuse to bash the Dimensions protesters. I believe that the purpose of a college education is to find enlightenment not only in one's narrow area of study, but in one's relationships with others and understanding of him or herself.
The majority of Dartmouth students, I am sure, want to emerge from this institution as educated and conscientious human beings. In order to do so, they must make a meaningful attempt to understand the human condition, that is, what influences and controls humans' notions of self and behavior toward others. That is no easy task. While one class is certainly not enough, I believe that this proposed course could heighten student consciousness and help make Dartmouth a better community.
