Daryl Davis "Klan-Destine Relationships"

In the first week of February Central had the privilege of having Daryl Davis present Klan-Destine Relationships. Before the presentation we had a dinner with Daryl in which a few of the Intercultural educators and other students were able to ask Daryl questions about his travels. It was interesting to learn how he could not understand how people could hate him just because of the color of his skin. He believed that you should not hate (not that you should hate at all) someone that you didn't even know. However, his mission was to "befriend the enemy". He felt if he could just get to know those who hated blacks, perhaps both sides could get to understand each other a little better.

During his presentation, he told us numerous stories of the encounters he had with members of the KKK, some civil and some much more aggressive. One member he met with several times and the first few times were very tense, however eventually the two grew to have a form of respect. Daryl would come watch him speak at KKK rallies, and this member would eat dinner with Daryl. Daryl explained that while he did not respect the view points of the KKK members, he did respect their right to express it. Daryl felt the key to a successful conversation was one in which both parties listened respectfully to the other. It can be very difficult to accomplish this, especially when we feel so heated about the topic. However, it is important to learn these skills to become a better communicator and also to help us grow. Sometimes we have to have these difficult conversations in order to learn and grow.

This advice really hit about two weeks after Daryl’s visit. I had my own much unexpected encounter with a person who felt negatively towards blacks and other races. I stood listening, feeling so hurt and angry at the things this person was saying to me, but I did my best to try to understand why this person felt the way that they did. Unfortunately there was no major break through, I'm sure this person is as ignorant as the moment we had that conversation. However, I learned something about myself. I was proud that I did not attack them for their view points and that I stood up for something I believe in. I think that what Daryl was really trying to say to us, stand up for your beliefs respectfully and perhaps eventually we'll get somewhere.

Your Intercultural Educator,
Shannan O