Reverse racism sparks debate at UNT

Naming of new residence hall raises questions on how the university honors donors

UNT Student Government Association senator Misaki Collins started the petition after realizing of all the UNT buildings on the Denton campus, only two were named after women, and none were named after a person of color.

UNT biology freshman Austin Teutsch said although the campus should honor and represent the diversity present amongst the university’s students, claiming reverse racism was not a wise decision.

“I think reverse racism is possibly a problem, because as people become more conscious of the fact that we do tend to split people apart based on their color, they really push to equalize it,” Teutsch said. “While that push to equalize is a good thing, some people can overdo it a bit. I do agree the building naming should change to incorporate everyone who has been a big part of this community.”

Kolsti responded to Collins’ petition via email saying, “UNT buildings should be named after individuals who are deserving of such an honor — not individuals who are chosen to fill a quota system that you think the university should have because you feel that it is important ‘to promote diversity in every aspect of the student experience.’”

UNT media arts senior Tony Casillas said these types of debates and word usage segregates people in a community even more.

“I think it’s also a term that’s overused,” Casillas said. “I think reverse racism does exist and it is bad — racism in general is bad — but I think when it’s overused and mistreated, it dampens what it means. I think you shouldn’t just throw that word out lightly, because I feel like it’s one of those words that’s damaging the country.”

Kolsti has since resigned her position with the university.

Feature Image: Courtesy University of North Texas Library

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