Eclipse, the annual event designed to stimulate community dialog and promote a culture of respect took place at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy April 5-6. Eclipse sessions embracing identity-related topics and encompassing race, gender, ethnicity, religion and sexual orientation were spread across the campus.
One of the main events was a keynote address by Dr. Beverly Tatum, former president of Spellman College and author of best-selling book, “Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? and Other Conversations About Race.”
Before introducing Tatum, Academy Superintendent Rear Adm. James Rendón spoke to the large group of cadets, faculty, staff and visitors in attendance.
“We are in a position to shape our Coast Guard culture and I tell you truly, we must each do our part to help drive this institution and our Coast Guard to a place of greater equity and inclusion,” said Rendón.
“To be certain we will encounter setbacks, and we have encountered setbacks, along the way. We have and will confront difficult truths both past and present. And we will be confronted by tough questions as we examine our Academy and our service culture. We have started on this path, this journey, but it is oh so very necessary.”
Tatum began her address speaking about the cycle of racism and what happens when people from some groups are not included or represented in a given community.
“When you’re missing from the picture it has an impact on you different from people who are regularly included,” said Tatum.
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