Martin Luther King Jr. once said, Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. If this is the case, then justice is on the fritz. Here in Athens, many people like to think of this small college town as being diverse and accepting. After living here a little over a year, it has been made clear that Ohio University is far from perfect. Instead, it is a place of hostility for many members of the community.
This hostile environment is created and perpetuated in Nathaniel Huggins' arrest. This case is one of blatant racism. While it is easy to avoid dealing with issues that do not directly affect us, it is our duty as moral citizens to fight for what is right. Taking no action is equivalent to supporting these perpetrators of racism. Everyone should be able to enjoy himself or herself in Athens without being verbally and physically assaulted. No one should have to live in fear of being a victim of a hate crime.
Nathaniel Huggins' case is just one of many. Allowing racist acts to continue is a threat on everyone's humanity. We need to fight these injustices if there will ever be hope for any
justice.
Laura Hyde is a sophomore studying in international studies and Rebecca Krelko is a sophomore studying French. They are co- presidents and members of STARS (Students Teaching About Racism in Society)
4 Opinion
