Institutionalized racism must end
I have waited in vain to see anyone take notice of testimony in the Burrell Ellis trial. DeKalb County officials are recorded saying things like,”Have to hire someone of the right complexion” and, “Have to get a brother in that job.” As H.I.M. Haile Selassie said to the U.N., and Bob Marley quoted, “Until the philosophy that holds one race superior and another inferior is finally and totally abandoned, everywhere is war.” Growing up in Lester Maddox Georgia, I was stunned to hear officials make similar statements as they “protected” the public from the “wrong” people.
That was institutionalized racism of the past. I now hear the same excuses of institutionalized racism from the Ellis people. Why is skin color or race even mentioned in consideration for the best person for a construction job? These officials are not representing the best interests of DeKalb citizens when they settle for the less-qualified person just to support their personal racial preferences. That is now illegal in privately owned businesses and certainly should be found disgusting and illegal when applied to public services. It is time to end using racism of any sort as a justification for actions in the 21st century. Leave that old baggage behind.
PATRICK EDMONDSON, ATLANTA
ASO needs better financial support
I am pleased to read the Atlanta Symphony (labor dispute) has been settled (“With 4-year deal, can ASO get back in tune?” News, Nov. 9). Several foundations have banded together to lift Detroit out of bankruptcy. Part of their donation will be used to save the Detroit Fine Arts Museum. Atlanta’s orchestra was well on its way to reaching greatness due to the work of the past and present outstanding conductors and at least some of the former boards of directors. The heart, brains and spirit of a city are in the arts. Money is essential when a major city needs to be the best it can possibly be.
An adequate budget for a top-flight symphony orchestra is essential for Atlanta. Members of the symphony board undoubtedly are successful people who are good with money. But they seem oblivious to the fact that a symphony orchestra requires a certain minimum size in order to be great or even near great. Going from 98 members to 77 may appease the board’s monetary concerns, but it is devastating to musicians and patrons. An orchestra that does not have the proper size cannot be effective. The basic question is why this board has failed to raise money to support a treasure in Atlanta’s culture.
MARLENE AND MICHAEL ZEILER, ATLANTA
