Spring Break
Students, bars disagree on entry rules
Abstract:
On the night of March 30, an international Ph.D. student and her boyfriend entered Hookah Station....
- Displaying 1 - 44 of 44
Taylor
posted 4/13/07 @ 10:10 PM CST
Originally posted byErin
Northgate is racist. I have seen Gatsby's charge only certain races to enter. I remember seeing one guy pay $5 so I thought there was a cover that night, then when I handed the money to the bouncer he said "No cover" and I said "but you charged that guy", who happened to be African American. The bouncer said it was none of my business and what did I care. I was furious and left.
Most Northgate bars and bars everywhere don't charge girls cover. That's not racist, it's a way to get over 21 guys(the biggest spenders) to come in your bar. Also you have no way of knowing if the guy was under 21. Almost all of the bars in Northgate on a busy night will charge underage people. They are a liability because they are undoubtedly in Northgate trying to drink.
The overseer
posted 4/17/07 @ 2:38 PM CST
Originally posted byErin
Northgate is racist. I have seen Gatsby's charge only certain races to enter. I remember seeing one guy pay $5 so I thought there was a cover that night, then when I handed the money to the bouncer he said "No cover" and I said "but you charged that guy", who happened to be African American. The bouncer said it was none of my business and what did I care. I was furious and left.
Did anybody else see Erin mention "SEX or GENDER" anywhere in her comment??? I don't think so.
On another note, some females can put down more alcohol than many males, therefore spending more money. So down say that only the males are the big spenders.
If you want a really good view on Northgate, refer to the comment by "Bill" on the stabbing at V-Bar (comments to the 4/5/07 article). I have lived in CS for 23 years and this is a true realization.
S
posted 4/18/07 @ 9:53 AM CST
Originally posted byErin
Northgate is racist. I have seen Gatsby's charge only certain races to enter. I remember seeing one guy pay $5 so I thought there was a cover that night, then when I handed the money to the bouncer he said "No cover" and I said "but you charged that guy", who happened to be African American. The bouncer said it was none of my business and what did I care. I was furious and left.
Actually, yes, read the words "African American"!
Sara
posted 4/13/07 @ 11:16 AM CST
This is not at all a new phenomenon at Northgate or Texas A&M in general. I graduated from A&M in 2002, and while I grew up with and love the school and traditions, I will not encourage my child to attend A&M or live in this community if there is not progress made. I have been witness to an incident at the Dry Bean in which a homosexual male that I was with was refused drinks (and this was the first drink of the night, so sobreirty was not an issue, as the manager of the Hookah Bar claims is ordinarily the case). My brother also had a beer poured on him at Harry's during a concert for wearing an Aggie Allies pin.
I feel that a big part of the problem with the students at A&M is that many come from very small towns where they have not been exposed to the "real world," and have been raised by and around those who have also been very isolated. They then come to a primarily white, conservative school environment with other like-minded individuals and are never really exposed or open to exposure to other races, cultures, and lifestyles. These are the students that are the bartenders and bouncers in the bars at Northgate and, unfortunately, representative of the social education that A&M currently provides.
I feel that a big part of the problem with the students at A&M is that many come from very small towns where they have not been exposed to the "real world," and have been raised by and around those who have also been very isolated. They then come to a primarily white, conservative school environment with other like-minded individuals and are never really exposed or open to exposure to other races, cultures, and lifestyles. These are the students that are the bartenders and bouncers in the bars at Northgate and, unfortunately, representative of the social education that A&M currently provides.
Em
posted 4/13/07 @ 11:21 AM CST
Library is the worst. I was thrown out by a bouncer named chase who called my boyfriend a nigger and hit him for no reason. He then openly admitted to being racist and the cops would do nothing about it. don't support racism and unjust treatment and don't go into these clubs and give these clubs money!
Sanjiv
posted 4/13/07 @ 12:05 PM CST
This would not be the first time I heard of racism at Northgate. I was once well dressed, and waiting for a friend, while I decided to go and wait inside Gatsby's. I was refused entrance because I did not have a valid A&M student ID. When my friend arrived, who is a regular at Gatsby's, I was allowed to enter with him. Inside I saw people that were professionals, probably in their 40's and even a guy in a maroon t-shirt and jeans, who was probably in his 60's...although still possible, I doubt they were all A&M students. BTW, I was and still am a staff member at A&M. A friend of mine who is Sikh, was refused entrance at what used to be Shadow Canyon because he was wearing a turban (requirement of his religion). Racism? Sure, lots of it all over! And yet, we proudly try to claim the Aggie spirit and fellowship and brotherhood, etc. etc...it was never made clear to me that it was only for caucasian Aggies.
D
posted 4/13/07 @ 1:37 PM CST
I am a regular at Hookah Station and have always seen a very diverse crowd there. I have seen Asians, Blacks, Whites, Hispanics, Indians, Lebanese, and other races and skin colors there on a regular basis. There is racism from every race but if they are trying to make this out to be that Hookah Station only lets in white people that is not the case. In my experience I would say the Hookah Station is one of the most diverse bars on Northgate. The owners aren't white and I highly doubt they discriminate against certain races as I am sure they themselves have been a victim of racism. I would expect they would welcome anyone into their bar as they are still are relatively new bar on northgate.
Melissa
posted 7/01/07 @ 4:33 AM CST
Oh yes. I'm sure you're the black guy they called out tonight when my Nigerian-American friend was turned away. Ok, that makes it all better. I'm glad they let super-awesome brown people like yourself in, but not my friend. It's cool, he's just a poet from Virginia who speaks a couple languages and is employed by Duke University this summer on the Texas A&M campus. I'm sure Hookah is totally justified in denying him entrance, even though they were willing to let my 8 other white friends enter...just not him.
Sanjiv
posted 4/13/07 @ 1:52 PM CST
In response to D's comments...I agree and I don't think Hookah Station allows only caucasians to enter. However, the numerous incidents that took place that one night, all seem to establish a trend rather than an isolated incident. Also, I think the voice is being raised against racism in general, with Hookah Station incidents as "the final spark that lit the flames". In this day and age I think it is important that everyone realizes racism acts as a hindrance to progress.
Also, maybe because the bar is relatively new, they are desperate to make as much money as possible in their early days, thus the rapid "throw-out" of non-buying customers? But some already bought drinks and others paid cover...hmmmm...
Also, maybe because the bar is relatively new, they are desperate to make as much money as possible in their early days, thus the rapid "throw-out" of non-buying customers? But some already bought drinks and others paid cover...hmmmm...
HL
posted 4/14/07 @ 4:18 AM CST
It's sad to see people denying racism exists in Northgate. Taylor do you honestly believe that was the case? If the african american male happened to be under 21 the bouncer would have told Erin, "well i charged him because he was under 21", why? because by telling her that "it was none of my business and what did I care" all they did was lose a customer. It was racism or just bad business practice, you take your pick.
and renee kennedy, i really hope thats sarcasm... if not, it's a perfect example of you how cultured A&M student could be
Honestly, I would like to believe that all this accusations were one big misunderstanding, but it's a reality that being avoided/ignored. Aggies as a student body is avoiding the fact that racism is alive in the Aggieland. And all that talk about diversity is not going to change anything until we make a very important decision. We Aggies have to make a decision on whether to allow racism (and tolerate the racists) slide or give diversity a chance to flourish. And I'm afraid that if the situation does not improve, the small amonunt of diversity we have will die by the disease that ills us.
Final note to all the racists who are going to post their hateful and pointless messages toward me, I really don't care on what you have to say to me, if it was up to me I would kick you out of A&M and finally rid Aggieland of the disease you are spreading.
And to all the students who wants to make a change. I would like to challenge someone to catch the racism on film or recording. We need a concrete evidence that the student body cannot ignore. Accusations are worthless without the facts and the evidences to support them. And if you try and fail to find any racism at Aggieland or Northgate, and I will apolgize for any accusations I have made, but I have a feeling that it won't come to that.
and renee kennedy, i really hope thats sarcasm... if not, it's a perfect example of you how cultured A&M student could be
Honestly, I would like to believe that all this accusations were one big misunderstanding, but it's a reality that being avoided/ignored. Aggies as a student body is avoiding the fact that racism is alive in the Aggieland. And all that talk about diversity is not going to change anything until we make a very important decision. We Aggies have to make a decision on whether to allow racism (and tolerate the racists) slide or give diversity a chance to flourish. And I'm afraid that if the situation does not improve, the small amonunt of diversity we have will die by the disease that ills us.
Final note to all the racists who are going to post their hateful and pointless messages toward me, I really don't care on what you have to say to me, if it was up to me I would kick you out of A&M and finally rid Aggieland of the disease you are spreading.
And to all the students who wants to make a change. I would like to challenge someone to catch the racism on film or recording. We need a concrete evidence that the student body cannot ignore. Accusations are worthless without the facts and the evidences to support them. And if you try and fail to find any racism at Aggieland or Northgate, and I will apolgize for any accusations I have made, but I have a feeling that it won't come to that.
j
posted 4/14/07 @ 5:42 PM CST
Originally posted byHL
Final note to all the racists who are going to post their hateful and pointless messages toward me, I really don't care on what you have to say to me, if it was up to me I would kick you out of A&M and finally rid Aggieland of the disease you are spreading.
Racism is bad, and you are no voice against it. How can you try to stop hate with being hateful yourself? You are just as bad as those whom you hate.
...a rose by any other name...
Dr.Alban
posted 4/15/07 @ 6:12 AM CST
Why do non-whites (Indians & blacks especially) want to go to bars ?
Dont they know they are in TEXAS ?
The only thing Intl "colored" students should do while stuck in this miserable redneck town is :
1. Concentrate on their studies.
2. Try to graduate as soon as possible.
3. Try to land a job in California or New York and never, ever come back here.
Dont they know they are in TEXAS ?
The only thing Intl "colored" students should do while stuck in this miserable redneck town is :
1. Concentrate on their studies.
2. Try to graduate as soon as possible.
3. Try to land a job in California or New York and never, ever come back here.
RH
posted 4/15/07 @ 12:46 PM CST
Originally posted byDr.Alban
Why do non-whites (Indians & blacks especially) want to go to bars ?
Dont they know they are in TEXAS ?
3. Try to land a job in California or New York and never, ever come back here.
If you don't like it, you can leave.
Dannae
posted 4/15/07 @ 1:00 PM CST
Originally posted byDr.Alban
Why do non-whites (Indians & blacks especially) want to go to bars ?
Dont they know they are in TEXAS ?
The only thing Intl "colored" students should do while stuck in this miserable redneck town is :
1. Concentrate on their studies.
2. Try to graduate as soon as possible.
3. Try to land a job in California or New York and never, ever come back here.
I'm hoping this was sarcasm, but even then it was in terribly poor taste.
Dr.Alban
posted 4/15/07 @ 4:09 PM CST
Nice comeback redneck. Is that the best you can come up with ?
Most of us are attracted to the school and not to the rednecks who unfortunately come as part of the package. But once we are stuck here, after paying thousands of dollars, we have no alternative but to stay until we finish our programs braving.
In future, to avoid this uncomfortable situation, ask the university to put a disclaimer on the TAMU application form saying that: "warning: rednecks live here" to warn foreign students before they invest their tens of thousands of dollars in your miserable little village.
The irony of your logic is:
1. You want to reserve the right to assault people solely based on their skin color in the name of your redneck kkk/republican/conservative ideology.
2. You want to take their thousands of dollars (international students are charged more tuition than regular "Texans") and yet refuse to offer them any sense of security.
But who am I to argue.. you guys are getting away with so much racism, thats unheard of in the more civilized parts of this otherwise great country. Its working for you and will probably work for you for another hundred years.. good luck !
So, keep living in your KKK fantasies of White supremacy.. sure will get you very far in life.. err... within the boundaries of Texas or Alabama or Mississippi..lol.
Most of us are attracted to the school and not to the rednecks who unfortunately come as part of the package. But once we are stuck here, after paying thousands of dollars, we have no alternative but to stay until we finish our programs braving.
In future, to avoid this uncomfortable situation, ask the university to put a disclaimer on the TAMU application form saying that: "warning: rednecks live here" to warn foreign students before they invest their tens of thousands of dollars in your miserable little village.
The irony of your logic is:
1. You want to reserve the right to assault people solely based on their skin color in the name of your redneck kkk/republican/conservative ideology.
2. You want to take their thousands of dollars (international students are charged more tuition than regular "Texans") and yet refuse to offer them any sense of security.
But who am I to argue.. you guys are getting away with so much racism, thats unheard of in the more civilized parts of this otherwise great country. Its working for you and will probably work for you for another hundred years.. good luck !
So, keep living in your KKK fantasies of White supremacy.. sure will get you very far in life.. err... within the boundaries of Texas or Alabama or Mississippi..lol.
Ron
posted 4/15/07 @ 7:03 PM CST
Originally posted byDr.Alban
Why do non-whites (Indians & blacks especially) want to go to bars ?
Dont they know they are in TEXAS ?
The only thing Intl "colored" students should do while stuck in this miserable redneck town is :
1. Concentrate on their studies.
2. Try to graduate as soon as possible.
3. Try to land a job in California or New York and never, ever come back here.
This town is progressing and most people that live here have extreme dislike of the rednecks. Unfortunately it is usually the most uneducated and ill informed that make the most noise. So while the large majority of rednecks are white that doesn't mean that a large majority of whites are rednecks. So please stop generalizing that all whites are rednecks and that if they cross some latitudinal boundary that all of a sudden whites are not rednecks. Your thought that racism only exists in the south is ridiculous. It is only in the south that the racists are stupid enough to hoot and holler out loud about how racist they are. You want people to not stereotype a whole race but you feel that you are justified in doing so yourself. White people aren't the only people that can be hateful, racist, bigots. Have you visited much of the world, outside of upper class developments? Please try to respond without using your intense hatred of white people.
Dr.Alban
posted 4/15/07 @ 11:14 PM CST
Nice try to paint me as a racist or race baiter. I've lived in several countries and all over north-eastern US and california for several years. I dont have any beef with whites what with my wife being european and having grown up among white people. Nor do I have anything against Texas A&M university itself, which is a fine school.
Let me re-state what I've earlier said. College Station is a redneck town and non-white people (even if they are Phds or nobel laureates) will get treated like crap here because of your horrendous southern/KKK inspired culture (or lack of it).
Its a generalization, but nonetheless, it will do just fine. And it will stay true for another century.
But I must admit that its ridiculously funny that these dumb, inbred, semi-literate rednecks think so highly of themselves and treat any colored person shabbily and thousands of redneck Texans support their ghastly actions by blaming Nancy Pelosi or affirmative action (which has got nothing to do with international student admissions) for their MERE presence. Its almost cartoonishly racist and thats why its so funny.
For those unfortunate non-white students who end up here mistaking Texas as a typical representation of the social freedom offered by US, all I gotta say is.... welcome to apartheid South Africa sans the ANC !
The ONLY pragmatic way they can survive this lousy town is to just concentrate on school, avoid bars and interaction with locals/rednecks and graduate asap. Already lots of international students have learnt the nature of these people and try to avoid the local Texan rednecks (which works out fine for all). Hope more follow the suit and stay away from the locals for their own physical safety.
Hope I'm clear enough for you not to take any more double meanings ?
Let me re-state what I've earlier said. College Station is a redneck town and non-white people (even if they are Phds or nobel laureates) will get treated like crap here because of your horrendous southern/KKK inspired culture (or lack of it).
Its a generalization, but nonetheless, it will do just fine. And it will stay true for another century.
But I must admit that its ridiculously funny that these dumb, inbred, semi-literate rednecks think so highly of themselves and treat any colored person shabbily and thousands of redneck Texans support their ghastly actions by blaming Nancy Pelosi or affirmative action (which has got nothing to do with international student admissions) for their MERE presence. Its almost cartoonishly racist and thats why its so funny.
For those unfortunate non-white students who end up here mistaking Texas as a typical representation of the social freedom offered by US, all I gotta say is.... welcome to apartheid South Africa sans the ANC !
The ONLY pragmatic way they can survive this lousy town is to just concentrate on school, avoid bars and interaction with locals/rednecks and graduate asap. Already lots of international students have learnt the nature of these people and try to avoid the local Texan rednecks (which works out fine for all). Hope more follow the suit and stay away from the locals for their own physical safety.
Hope I'm clear enough for you not to take any more double meanings ?
Originally posted byDr.Alban
This town is progressing and most people that live here have extreme dislike of the rednecks. Unfortunately it is usually the most uneducated and ill informed that make the most noise. So while the large majority of rednecks are white that doesn't mean that a large majority of whites are rednecks. So please stop generalizing that all whites are rednecks and that if they cross some latitudinal boundary that all of a sudden whites are not rednecks. Your thought that racism only exists in the south is ridiculous. It is only in the south that the racists are stupid enough to hoot and holler out loud about how racist they are. You want people to not stereotype a whole race but you feel that you are justified in doing so yourself. White people aren't the only people that can be hateful, racist, bigots. Have you visited much of the world, outside of upper class developments? Please try to respond without using your intense hatred of white people.
Ron
posted 4/15/07 @ 6:22 AM CST
To Everyone,
In no way is the following an attempt to justify anything about the above article or statements but I am fed up with the term "racist" being thrown around like it means nothing. Honestly any and everyone could be considered racist the way people throw the word around. EVERYONE IS PREJUDICED! It will always be like that because everyone doesn't grow up in the exact same environment. About 90% of the stories I hear or read in the news these days are instances of someone being prejudice not racist. Being prejudice is a fact of life. Since no one in this educated country seems to know what these words mean, I will give the definitions.
Racism:
Function: noun
a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race
Prejudice:
Pronunciation: 'rA-"si-z&m also -"shi-
Function: noun
a (1) : preconceived judgment or opinion (2) : an adverse opinion or leaning formed without just grounds or before sufficient knowledge b : an instance of such judgment or opinion c : an irrational attitude of hostility directed against an individual, a group, a race, or their supposed characteristics
If you don't allow someone in a bar that has baggy clothes with a hat and pants hanging from the bottom of their butt who happens to be a minority it doesn't mean that you hate everyone that is the same race as them.
I don't work at these bars or go to them, I grew up in Newark, New Jersey and Washington DC, I am not from a small town, and I am sick of everyone watering down the true definition of racism. If they won't let you in then be proud and tell yourself that you are too good for them anyways. Do you really want to financially support those jerks? Some people are really horrible. There are a bunch of jerks in every town or city you will ever visit. We will never make any progress if we keep playing the name game. Some people are definitely racist, most all are prejudice, and some are wasting oxygen for the rest of us.
I am sorry this happened to you at the bar, but what if the bartender is from a small town (as stated as a possibility in another post) and his first experience with a group of Indians was that of no tipping, drink soft drinks, and blocking the bar? If that happened then he would definitely be prejudiced, but not racist. My little brother was a bartender when he was in college and I promise you that if blue people came in and didn't tip and took up bar space when it was busy then he would dread serving every future blue person that came but it doesn't mean that when he left work that he hated blue people. Im rambling.
In no way is the following an attempt to justify anything about the above article or statements but I am fed up with the term "racist" being thrown around like it means nothing. Honestly any and everyone could be considered racist the way people throw the word around. EVERYONE IS PREJUDICED! It will always be like that because everyone doesn't grow up in the exact same environment. About 90% of the stories I hear or read in the news these days are instances of someone being prejudice not racist. Being prejudice is a fact of life. Since no one in this educated country seems to know what these words mean, I will give the definitions.
Racism:
Function: noun
a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race
Prejudice:
Pronunciation: 'rA-"si-z&m also -"shi-
Function: noun
a (1) : preconceived judgment or opinion (2) : an adverse opinion or leaning formed without just grounds or before sufficient knowledge b : an instance of such judgment or opinion c : an irrational attitude of hostility directed against an individual, a group, a race, or their supposed characteristics
If you don't allow someone in a bar that has baggy clothes with a hat and pants hanging from the bottom of their butt who happens to be a minority it doesn't mean that you hate everyone that is the same race as them.
I don't work at these bars or go to them, I grew up in Newark, New Jersey and Washington DC, I am not from a small town, and I am sick of everyone watering down the true definition of racism. If they won't let you in then be proud and tell yourself that you are too good for them anyways. Do you really want to financially support those jerks? Some people are really horrible. There are a bunch of jerks in every town or city you will ever visit. We will never make any progress if we keep playing the name game. Some people are definitely racist, most all are prejudice, and some are wasting oxygen for the rest of us.
I am sorry this happened to you at the bar, but what if the bartender is from a small town (as stated as a possibility in another post) and his first experience with a group of Indians was that of no tipping, drink soft drinks, and blocking the bar? If that happened then he would definitely be prejudiced, but not racist. My little brother was a bartender when he was in college and I promise you that if blue people came in and didn't tip and took up bar space when it was busy then he would dread serving every future blue person that came but it doesn't mean that when he left work that he hated blue people. Im rambling.
winandcover
posted 4/15/07 @ 4:38 PM CST
As an Asian person, and someone who has patronized bars in the Bryan/College Station area (Northgate included), I can honestly say that I have not experienced racism or racial discrimination - at least not at any of the drinking establishments in BCS. In fact, there were several times that I've had far too much to drink and was behaving in an unruly manner (no, I am not proud of this), and my behavior was tolerated far longer than it probably should have been. In fact, I have white friends who were thrown out of bars for acting and behaving in similar fashion.
In fact, my one racial encounter (while drinking) occurred in Austin, on 6th Street at a parking garage where a drunk kid yelled something to the effect of "Hey, why don't you come build me a railroad!" No, its not the same as having a cross burned on your front lawn, but when you're out trying to have a good time with friends, having to hear things like that can kind of be a downer.
Everyone here knows that there are two sides to every story, right now, we're only hearing from people who feel that they were victims of racism (and perhaps they, in fact were). I just wish that in these reported instances, the bartenders/bouncers would have done a better job of trying to justify their actions and explaining to their patrons why they 1) are being charged a cover 2) aren't allowed into a certain establishment or 3) are being asked to leave. I have experienced racism in the past, on several occasions - and as a minority, if a bartender or bouncer came up to me (and I wasn't aware of doing anything to violate the rules of a particular drinking establishment) and asked me to leave without bothering to justify why I should go - I might chalk it up to racism, even though there might be other factors involved.
I am certainly not trying to say that racism doesn't exist at Northgate or in College Station (I HAVE experienced racism in College Station - just not while drinking) but that both sides deserve a chance to be heard. Perhaps I've just been lucky in that I wasn't discriminated against while at Northgate or any of the other bars in College Station, my experiences are not the same as others and I was no doubt dealing with different people.
In the above mentioned experiences of others, there seems to be a common thread - whenever they were denied service, asked to leave, or not allowed to enter - the bouncer/bartender never bothered to justify his actions. There may have been a legitimate reason for denying them service - or it very well could ahve been racism (very few people would be dumb enough to utter a phrase like "I don't want to serve you because of the color of your skin") - unless you go back and find those same bartenders and bouncers and ask them why they did what they did - we'll probably never know.
If anything, I am heartened to see that a dialogue has been started and that the vast majority of people are expressing concern of the potential existence of racism in Northgate and most are denouncing racial discrimination of any kind.
To the person from New Jersey - a person in the service industry does him or herself a favor by not jumping to conclusions about the tips they may or may not receive from certain kinds of customers. I currently live in Las Vegas (where many people work for tips) and most people who take their jobs seriously and approach their work with a professional attitude do their best to provide good service to their clientele - no matter what they look like. Sure, certain groups of people are notorious for either not buying drinks or not tipping - but the fact of the matter is not everyone is the same. A person you might expect a lousy tip from might just be the guy who juices you heavy when he hits a royal on a poker machine. Most professional bartenders I know have figured this out quickly. The best way to ensure that you maximize your tips is to give good service to everyone. Giving poor service to a person you don't know becuase you assume he won't tip is as wrong as it is stuipd.
In fact, my one racial encounter (while drinking) occurred in Austin, on 6th Street at a parking garage where a drunk kid yelled something to the effect of "Hey, why don't you come build me a railroad!" No, its not the same as having a cross burned on your front lawn, but when you're out trying to have a good time with friends, having to hear things like that can kind of be a downer.
Everyone here knows that there are two sides to every story, right now, we're only hearing from people who feel that they were victims of racism (and perhaps they, in fact were). I just wish that in these reported instances, the bartenders/bouncers would have done a better job of trying to justify their actions and explaining to their patrons why they 1) are being charged a cover 2) aren't allowed into a certain establishment or 3) are being asked to leave. I have experienced racism in the past, on several occasions - and as a minority, if a bartender or bouncer came up to me (and I wasn't aware of doing anything to violate the rules of a particular drinking establishment) and asked me to leave without bothering to justify why I should go - I might chalk it up to racism, even though there might be other factors involved.
I am certainly not trying to say that racism doesn't exist at Northgate or in College Station (I HAVE experienced racism in College Station - just not while drinking) but that both sides deserve a chance to be heard. Perhaps I've just been lucky in that I wasn't discriminated against while at Northgate or any of the other bars in College Station, my experiences are not the same as others and I was no doubt dealing with different people.
In the above mentioned experiences of others, there seems to be a common thread - whenever they were denied service, asked to leave, or not allowed to enter - the bouncer/bartender never bothered to justify his actions. There may have been a legitimate reason for denying them service - or it very well could ahve been racism (very few people would be dumb enough to utter a phrase like "I don't want to serve you because of the color of your skin") - unless you go back and find those same bartenders and bouncers and ask them why they did what they did - we'll probably never know.
If anything, I am heartened to see that a dialogue has been started and that the vast majority of people are expressing concern of the potential existence of racism in Northgate and most are denouncing racial discrimination of any kind.
To the person from New Jersey - a person in the service industry does him or herself a favor by not jumping to conclusions about the tips they may or may not receive from certain kinds of customers. I currently live in Las Vegas (where many people work for tips) and most people who take their jobs seriously and approach their work with a professional attitude do their best to provide good service to their clientele - no matter what they look like. Sure, certain groups of people are notorious for either not buying drinks or not tipping - but the fact of the matter is not everyone is the same. A person you might expect a lousy tip from might just be the guy who juices you heavy when he hits a royal on a poker machine. Most professional bartenders I know have figured this out quickly. The best way to ensure that you maximize your tips is to give good service to everyone. Giving poor service to a person you don't know becuase you assume he won't tip is as wrong as it is stuipd.
Lisa
posted 4/16/07 @ 12:36 AM CST
I am a full blooded Mexican-American, and I look it; I have brown skin, black hair and brown eyes. Yet I go to bars, clubs, parties, etc and I have NEVER had any problem in College Station, and I have been here for almost 4 years. In my experience A&M is a great place to live, and most everyone is friendly. College Station is no worse than anywhere else in the world, and I have no problems with wanting my kids to go to A&M someday. Gig 'em Ags!
Dr.Alban
posted 4/16/07 @ 1:18 AM CST
Guess the rednecks have decided to hate only Indians and blacks in this town..
Originally posted byLisa
I am a full blooded Mexican-American, and I look it; I have brown skin, black hair and brown eyes. Yet I go to bars, clubs, parties, etc and I have NEVER had any problem in College Station, and I have been here for almost 4 years. In my experience A&M is a great place to live, and most everyone is friendly. College Station is no worse than anywhere else in the world, and I have no problems with wanting my kids to go to A&M someday. Gig 'em Ags!
Tom
posted 4/16/07 @ 12:48 AM CST
Sadly, any privately owned bar or restaurant can refuse service to anyone. The only thing we as consumers can do to fight against this type of discrimination is to just not give these types of businesses our money. Bottom line, if you don't like the way a restaurant or bar conducts its business, don't go. In the end, as word gets out, it will affect the establishment in the place that hurts most, its pocket book
winandcover
posted 4/16/07 @ 4:42 AM CST
Before anyone jumps to any conclusions about who hates who in College Station, it should be noted that people are simply pointing out their on personal experiences which may either be positive or negative. I myself remember hearing stories about Asians being beaten on Northgate. Different people have different experiences. Maybe I was lucky to not get assaulted during my time at Northgate, who knows? All I'm saying is I never got beat and I never was discriminated against the few times I visited there.
IndianGuy
posted 4/16/07 @ 1:21 PM CST
For all those people on this board who say - 'If you don't like it, don't go there' - whether when talking about Texas or about the bars at Northgate, I have this to say:
Prejudice is winning when this happens. This is exactly what the bars want - Intn'l students face bad experiences, they decide not to go there, and the bars continue to happily serve their Caucasian clients... By following the 'if you don't like it, don't go' attitude, we are letting prejudice/hate/racism/whatever-you-want-to-call-it win .. And you know what ? We've had enough !
We don't wanna go home and sulk... we don't wanna scream obscenities about racism! we don't wanna crib about how it is here... we want something done about this .. we want to go out and have a nice time, be treated as equals, and have a glass of beer without incident. That's all we want.
I don't think it's too much to ask.
Prejudice is winning when this happens. This is exactly what the bars want - Intn'l students face bad experiences, they decide not to go there, and the bars continue to happily serve their Caucasian clients... By following the 'if you don't like it, don't go' attitude, we are letting prejudice/hate/racism/whatever-you-want-to-call-it win .. And you know what ? We've had enough !
We don't wanna go home and sulk... we don't wanna scream obscenities about racism! we don't wanna crib about how it is here... we want something done about this .. we want to go out and have a nice time, be treated as equals, and have a glass of beer without incident. That's all we want.
I don't think it's too much to ask.
Quitweeping
posted 4/16/07 @ 3:44 PM CST
how come when white people get kicked out of bars they dont raise racism issues, because they just live to the fact, that yes when your are drunk you wil be kicked out; period. thats doesnt mean that the place your are going to is racist. NO & BIG NO! but unfortunetly every time a minority is kicked out of a bar beacuse they are drunk and belligerent they try to raise a racism issue, get over yourself beacuse thats not what it is? I am a minority myself and ive been going to bars on northagte and never got kicked out of a bar not even once. So next time my freind dress nice, look good, buy a drink tip the bartenders, drink responsibly dont start crap inside the bar, then no one will ask you to leave. this is not racism this is a problem that people have rooted in thier heads just beacuse they are a close minded minority that dont wont to open their eyes and think futher than their nose.
Jenny Lynn
posted 4/16/07 @ 4:27 PM CST
So those who are not racist against other nationalities are racist against rednecks? Hmmmm, that's funny...lets practice what we are preaching here. Apparently those who made the redneck comment don't know a true redneck. Although some rednecks might be racist, not all of them are. Saying all of them are racist is just as bad of a generalization as saying everyone in Texas is a consrvative. Another misconception is that they are not educated...that is a lie also. Let me explain to you some of the qualities that make up a redneck. First off most rednecks don't need a bar or club around to have fun. They know how to have fun taking their mud trucks out to a field, having a big campfire, and creating their own fun...most of which is not harmful to anyone. Anyone that hangs out with true rednecks knows this. Most of them also know how to hunt which means that when gasoline prices become extremely high and no one can pay for food, they will still be able to go out into the woods and provide for themselves and their families. Rednecks are extremely loyal people to their families and friends. Rednecks would prefer to live out in the woods where they don't have to deal with all the stupidity of people in the cities that don't have any common sense. Also, rednecks are located all around the country, not just in Texas. I am from Wisconsin and some of my best friends are rednecks...oh and the stories I could tell you...none of which include racism.
winandcover
posted 4/16/07 @ 11:22 PM CST
Originally posted byJenny Lynn
So those who are not racist against other nationalities are racist against rednecks? Hmmmm, that's funny...lets practice what we are preaching here. Apparently those who made the redneck comment don't know a true redneck. Although some rednecks might be racist, not all of them are. Saying all of them are racist is just as bad of a generalization as saying everyone in Texas is a consrvative. Another misconception is that they are not educated...that is a lie also. Let me explain to you some of the qualities that make up a redneck. First off most rednecks don't need a bar or club around to have fun. They know how to have fun taking their mud trucks out to a field, having a big campfire, and creating their own fun...most of which is not harmful to anyone. Anyone that hangs out with true rednecks knows this. Most of them also know how to hunt which means that when gasoline prices become extremely high and no one can pay for food, they will still be able to go out into the woods and provide for themselves and their families. Rednecks are extremely loyal people to their families and friends. Rednecks would prefer to live out in the woods where they don't have to deal with all the stupidity of people in the cities that don't have any common sense. Also, rednecks are located all around the country, not just in Texas. I am from Wisconsin and some of my best friends are rednecks...oh and the stories I could tell you...none of which include racism.
So...do you actually know lots of rednecks, or did you just listed to that "Country Boy can Survive" one too many times?
Sanjiv
posted 4/16/07 @ 6:31 PM CST
Couple of things...
1. The facts mentioned in the original article relate to three or four recent incidents that have affected Indians and African-Americans. In no way is there a claim that ALL minorities are facing absolute racism (heaven forbid such a day come). So for those of you who try to play down the racism at Northgate, in CS, in TX by saying "I'm a minority and it didn't happen to me"...lucky you. But guess what? If it hasn't happened yet and nothing is done about this, IT WILL! Are you one of those who will wait and take actions against things only when they strike your backyard or do you honestly care about the issue?
2. Second, to those that say we get drunk and we get thrown out too...and bring up the "dress properly" and tips and similar pathetic excuses, I have to say, read previous posts (mine and others) where sober, well dressed, well-tipping people were discriminated against (since the word racism has become taboo). This also in part addresses why we haven't heard so much from the bartender (by the way, the "head" bartender was the one who got in the fist fight and the rest of them were operating on his approval) or bartenders...because they MIGHT have just done something wrong and for once we decided not to bend-over-backwards-and-drop-our-pants-to-our-ankles.
3. The issue of rednecks, I think it is WRONG to generalize that all rednecks discriminate by race. I have met several friendly, elderly people, who have never been outside Texas. One of them I randomly met at an Asian Grocery Store and he was talking to a Chinese guy asking him what he did at A&M. When the Chinese guy answered he had a PhD in Biochemistry and was in the University for a research position, the elderly fellow (with quite the twang) was so happy and expressed his thanks to him saying, ' I'm an Aggie class of 19(60s) and I really appreciate how you guys (I think he meant smart Chinese scientists in general) have contributed to A&M's growth. I really appreciate it. It's nice to see A&M progress with your help.' So I don't think it is right to say all rednecks are racist (sorry for the use of the term). That is as bad a generalization as saying "you are an Indian, do you own a convinience store or a motel?".
Finally, I am really happy to see the issue has lit up and has raised enough concern...but let's not forget what the real issue here was. Thats what the opponents of a resolution to this issue want - that we end up fighting with each other on petty things and never get to the actual resolution of the matter. The issue was racism, within college station, specifically cited at Northgate. One baby step at a time, let's handle that matter first, then A&M, then B/CS...so on. Hope this helps control some of the anger and fury, and helps redirect things where we all SEEM TO AGREE!!!
1. The facts mentioned in the original article relate to three or four recent incidents that have affected Indians and African-Americans. In no way is there a claim that ALL minorities are facing absolute racism (heaven forbid such a day come). So for those of you who try to play down the racism at Northgate, in CS, in TX by saying "I'm a minority and it didn't happen to me"...lucky you. But guess what? If it hasn't happened yet and nothing is done about this, IT WILL! Are you one of those who will wait and take actions against things only when they strike your backyard or do you honestly care about the issue?
2. Second, to those that say we get drunk and we get thrown out too...and bring up the "dress properly" and tips and similar pathetic excuses, I have to say, read previous posts (mine and others) where sober, well dressed, well-tipping people were discriminated against (since the word racism has become taboo). This also in part addresses why we haven't heard so much from the bartender (by the way, the "head" bartender was the one who got in the fist fight and the rest of them were operating on his approval) or bartenders...because they MIGHT have just done something wrong and for once we decided not to bend-over-backwards-and-drop-our-pants-to-our-ankles.
3. The issue of rednecks, I think it is WRONG to generalize that all rednecks discriminate by race. I have met several friendly, elderly people, who have never been outside Texas. One of them I randomly met at an Asian Grocery Store and he was talking to a Chinese guy asking him what he did at A&M. When the Chinese guy answered he had a PhD in Biochemistry and was in the University for a research position, the elderly fellow (with quite the twang) was so happy and expressed his thanks to him saying, ' I'm an Aggie class of 19(60s) and I really appreciate how you guys (I think he meant smart Chinese scientists in general) have contributed to A&M's growth. I really appreciate it. It's nice to see A&M progress with your help.' So I don't think it is right to say all rednecks are racist (sorry for the use of the term). That is as bad a generalization as saying "you are an Indian, do you own a convinience store or a motel?".
Finally, I am really happy to see the issue has lit up and has raised enough concern...but let's not forget what the real issue here was. Thats what the opponents of a resolution to this issue want - that we end up fighting with each other on petty things and never get to the actual resolution of the matter. The issue was racism, within college station, specifically cited at Northgate. One baby step at a time, let's handle that matter first, then A&M, then B/CS...so on. Hope this helps control some of the anger and fury, and helps redirect things where we all SEEM TO AGREE!!!
Han-se Lee
posted 4/17/07 @ 2:41 AM CST
j, is it so wrong that I have hatred against prejudice (you made a good point on the def. Ron) individual? I'm not talking about red necks or white people. Group of people I hate doesn't even concern their race, I just hate people based on their actions. And I really wish I had enough power to change the problems of the world, but for now I will settle for the moment of your time (yes your J).
But back to the issue, like many people have posted, prejudice could go both ways and only way to fix it (only way i know how) is not to tolerate it. And Dr. Alban, you are half of the problem. You are being just as prejudice as the people you are blaming.
Bottom line, I love this town, I have lived here over 10 years and met some of the friendliest people in the world and also have been lucky enough to avoid prejudice individuals. But it is a situation if things don't improve, it will only get worse, and I really don't want a reason to dislike my town (almost a home town to me). Like Sanjiv said, take one baby step at a time. I will do what I can to stand up and speak against the prejudice(whether it be white people to minority or the other way around) and I hope you can do the same to better Aggieland.
But back to the issue, like many people have posted, prejudice could go both ways and only way to fix it (only way i know how) is not to tolerate it. And Dr. Alban, you are half of the problem. You are being just as prejudice as the people you are blaming.
Bottom line, I love this town, I have lived here over 10 years and met some of the friendliest people in the world and also have been lucky enough to avoid prejudice individuals. But it is a situation if things don't improve, it will only get worse, and I really don't want a reason to dislike my town (almost a home town to me). Like Sanjiv said, take one baby step at a time. I will do what I can to stand up and speak against the prejudice(whether it be white people to minority or the other way around) and I hope you can do the same to better Aggieland.
Dr.Alban
posted 4/17/07 @ 5:14 PM CST
Seriously man..dont you see how much you are losing by staying in this place ?
Your social freedom is seriously jeopardized here unlike in most parts of the country because of issues of race.
While the rest of the world is in 21st century, Texans are still stuck in the pre-1930s with their kkk-inspired "bonfires" and "lynching of nig***s" mindset. And it affects everyone just by staying here.
My friend who graduated from here thinks that inter-racial marriage is SIN because of his experiences in apartheid College station.
Most colored international students are so used to the typical shabby treatment you receive here and think that this is typical of American culture.
I suggest you live in other parts of the country - Seattle, San Diego, Newark, etc.
And BTW... no matter what you do or say, people in this friggin little puny excuse of a backward town will judge you by your skin color and race.
If you are white and european-origin person, you are good to them even if you have a lousy personality. And even if you are a brilliant person who is black or Indian, you are condemned as "lousy".
And I think its just a waste of your time to talk with the locals, they are born in a very backward and prejudiced culture. Its even pointless to befriend them and thats the reason why we should AVOID them at all costs, for your own personal safety.
So, Just leave it here, concentrate on your OWN life, graduate and escape from here ASAP. If possible warn as many others from your country NOT to come here and spoil some of the best years of their lives in this miserably backward redneck village.
Your social freedom is seriously jeopardized here unlike in most parts of the country because of issues of race.
While the rest of the world is in 21st century, Texans are still stuck in the pre-1930s with their kkk-inspired "bonfires" and "lynching of nig***s" mindset. And it affects everyone just by staying here.
My friend who graduated from here thinks that inter-racial marriage is SIN because of his experiences in apartheid College station.
Most colored international students are so used to the typical shabby treatment you receive here and think that this is typical of American culture.
I suggest you live in other parts of the country - Seattle, San Diego, Newark, etc.
And BTW... no matter what you do or say, people in this friggin little puny excuse of a backward town will judge you by your skin color and race.
If you are white and european-origin person, you are good to them even if you have a lousy personality. And even if you are a brilliant person who is black or Indian, you are condemned as "lousy".
And I think its just a waste of your time to talk with the locals, they are born in a very backward and prejudiced culture. Its even pointless to befriend them and thats the reason why we should AVOID them at all costs, for your own personal safety.
So, Just leave it here, concentrate on your OWN life, graduate and escape from here ASAP. If possible warn as many others from your country NOT to come here and spoil some of the best years of their lives in this miserably backward redneck village.
Originally posted byHan-se Lee
j, is it so wrong that I have hatred against prejudice (you made a good point on the def. Ron) individual? I'm not talking about red necks or white people. Group of people I hate doesn't even concern their race, I just hate people based on their actions. And I really wish I had enough power to change the problems of the world, but for now I will settle for the moment of your time (yes your J).
But back to the issue, like many people have posted, prejudice could go both ways and only way to fix it (only way i know how) is not to tolerate it. And Dr. Alban, you are half of the problem. You are being just as prejudice as the people you are blaming.
Bottom line, I love this town, I have lived here over 10 years and met some of the friendliest people in the world and also have been lucky enough to avoid prejudice individuals. But it is a situation if things don't improve, it will only get worse, and I really don't want a reason to dislike my town (almost a home town to me). Like Sanjiv said, take one baby step at a time. I will do what I can to stand up and speak against the prejudice(whether it be white people to minority or the other way around) and I hope you can do the same to better Aggieland.
John Port '07
posted 4/17/07 @ 4:14 AM CST
this town needs a taste of houston...
Ron
posted 4/17/07 @ 7:19 PM CST
Dr. Alban,
This is my last post on the topic. I am sorry that you have so much anger in your life. It really is a waste. I have to say that you are in fact the most racist person that I have talked to. Maybe you have met worse and that really sucks if you have because you are pretty extreme. Do you really think people will ever change when the minorities they encounter are full of hate and telling every minority to leave.
You should be telling more minorities to come. All those areas you keep talking about that are racist free zones like New York, San Fran, Seattle all have large minority populations. You have to have large minority groups to make a change.
I have a hard time believing that you are highly educated since you seem to have no problems in completely generalizing an entire region of the country. Don't let your anger clout your mind. You are right, we need to end a lot of crap that happens in this town and EVERY TOWN IN THE WORLD! So I am asking you to take the first step. STOP THE HATE!
Here is my question for you:
Do you really want to make a change in this world or do you want to high-tail it to a comfortable place where someone else has already broken down the barriers for you?
Rome wasn't built in a day.
This is my last post on the topic. I am sorry that you have so much anger in your life. It really is a waste. I have to say that you are in fact the most racist person that I have talked to. Maybe you have met worse and that really sucks if you have because you are pretty extreme. Do you really think people will ever change when the minorities they encounter are full of hate and telling every minority to leave.
You should be telling more minorities to come. All those areas you keep talking about that are racist free zones like New York, San Fran, Seattle all have large minority populations. You have to have large minority groups to make a change.
I have a hard time believing that you are highly educated since you seem to have no problems in completely generalizing an entire region of the country. Don't let your anger clout your mind. You are right, we need to end a lot of crap that happens in this town and EVERY TOWN IN THE WORLD! So I am asking you to take the first step. STOP THE HATE!
Here is my question for you:
Do you really want to make a change in this world or do you want to high-tail it to a comfortable place where someone else has already broken down the barriers for you?
Rome wasn't built in a day.
S
posted 4/18/07 @ 10:11 AM CST
Interesting turn of events because:
1. The original problem of Northgate is no longer in attention. So yes, good job everyone in getting lost in fighting with each other and losing sight of something that WAS really an achievable goal in the near and up-close future - eliminating racism at Northgate. RACISTS - 1, US - 0!
2. Those voicing out their opinions (harsh or mild) against racism, are now being accused of being the cause of continued racism...the thief complaining the cop shot him, when he was shot because he was trying to escape. Well done! RACISTS - 2, US - 0!
I can keep going, but as clearly hinted at by Dr. Alban and the others, there's only so many times you can bash your head against the wall before you start bleeding, yet nothing happens to the wall. That is the case here. The racist environment here is so strong and deeply rooted in the foundation and upbringing of this area, that perhaps a few more decades MIGHT make a difference.
Lastly, about the other places in the country where racism isn't prevalent, here's a clue why there are large minority populations: 1) significant influx of foreigners (2) significant outflux of whites as a result of the influx...i.e., racists literally moved out (not the racism). Don't believe me? Talk to any rela estate agent in San Diego. They will tell you that since the significant influx of asian into San Diego, property rates have dropped because most of the white people sell their homes and move to the "upper class" areas. With rich asians coming in, since they too can afford to get into these areas, white people are moving out from San Diego as a whole.
So...eventually I'm guessing every white person will be stuck in the south, trying to practice their racist rituals. Interesting demographics...North to South we would have Canada (white) - upper USA - (Brown) - southern USA - (white) - Mexico - (Brown)...resembles the flag of a certain country if you replaced brown with red...hmmmmmmmm.
1. The original problem of Northgate is no longer in attention. So yes, good job everyone in getting lost in fighting with each other and losing sight of something that WAS really an achievable goal in the near and up-close future - eliminating racism at Northgate. RACISTS - 1, US - 0!
2. Those voicing out their opinions (harsh or mild) against racism, are now being accused of being the cause of continued racism...the thief complaining the cop shot him, when he was shot because he was trying to escape. Well done! RACISTS - 2, US - 0!
I can keep going, but as clearly hinted at by Dr. Alban and the others, there's only so many times you can bash your head against the wall before you start bleeding, yet nothing happens to the wall. That is the case here. The racist environment here is so strong and deeply rooted in the foundation and upbringing of this area, that perhaps a few more decades MIGHT make a difference.
Lastly, about the other places in the country where racism isn't prevalent, here's a clue why there are large minority populations: 1) significant influx of foreigners (2) significant outflux of whites as a result of the influx...i.e., racists literally moved out (not the racism). Don't believe me? Talk to any rela estate agent in San Diego. They will tell you that since the significant influx of asian into San Diego, property rates have dropped because most of the white people sell their homes and move to the "upper class" areas. With rich asians coming in, since they too can afford to get into these areas, white people are moving out from San Diego as a whole.
So...eventually I'm guessing every white person will be stuck in the south, trying to practice their racist rituals. Interesting demographics...North to South we would have Canada (white) - upper USA - (Brown) - southern USA - (white) - Mexico - (Brown)...resembles the flag of a certain country if you replaced brown with red...hmmmmmmmm.
Marquon Quiller
posted 4/18/07 @ 11:46 AM CST
It really sucks that with all the sadness that is already going on in the world, that we can't just pull together and get past this. It's just so insignificant in the grand scheme of things, there are men and women getting there arms and legs blown off for us in Iraq, proud HOKIE mothers and fathers that will never hug their sons or again...
GETOUT
posted 4/18/07 @ 6:51 PM CST
Dr. Alban
i aint gonna talk much but am just gonna tell you this, if you dont like it, just LEAVE and get over it, because you aint gonna solve any problem with all the hatred that you carry on your back!and am sure in your own country"w/ all respect" there is as much racism as there is anywhere, so try solvin your problems first of all!
PEACE!
i aint gonna talk much but am just gonna tell you this, if you dont like it, just LEAVE and get over it, because you aint gonna solve any problem with all the hatred that you carry on your back!and am sure in your own country"w/ all respect" there is as much racism as there is anywhere, so try solvin your problems first of all!
PEACE!
S
posted 4/18/07 @ 7:25 PM CST
GETOUT,
Consider it a favor on your future generations that we (including Dr. Alban) will go through all this pain and suffering, so that they may learn to live in the global environment and leave the shroud of the racist past and accept that America is no longer just for the whites. If we don't go through this, your future generations will get left behind while the rest of the world progresses. And oh, yes, you are very welcome!
Consider it a favor on your future generations that we (including Dr. Alban) will go through all this pain and suffering, so that they may learn to live in the global environment and leave the shroud of the racist past and accept that America is no longer just for the whites. If we don't go through this, your future generations will get left behind while the rest of the world progresses. And oh, yes, you are very welcome!
Jeremy
posted 7/01/07 @ 4:49 AM CST
Dude, don't even worry about it. I GUARANTEE you...I PROMISE you, that racism in College Station is inversely related to intelligence. ALL of the statistics will show you--racists are of below average intelligence. They make spelling errors in posts quite often, too.
Originally posted byS
GETOUT,
Consider it a favor on your future generations that we (including Dr. Alban) will go through all this pain and suffering, so that they may learn to live in the global environment and leave the shroud of the racist past and accept that America is no longer just for the whites. If we don't go through this, your future generations will get left behind while the rest of the world progresses. And oh, yes, you are very welcome!
Christine
posted 4/18/07 @ 7:48 PM CST
I think this is all really sad - on both sides. Being a white woman, I obviously have no idea what its like to be "different" in a town like BCS where most people are A-typical Texan. I think its kind of pathetic that other white people cant see all the hardship that people of other races experience. But I dont really think its our fault...completely. We (most of us) were raised in a society where there is variance among the white race but not really among other races. If a white person kills someone down the street, most of us Aggies wont freak out if we see a white person. But paint that killer another color and fear erupts. Simply put, labels suck...but I blame the media for perpetuating them. And then I blame our weakness as a culture for internalizing it.
However, I do believe that everyone is racist to a certain extent. But that doesnt mean you have to act upon it purposfully. Ive seen a picture of the kkk leading the aggie band into Kyle. Racism is defintely a factor here because it was built into the founding of our College and our state.
While it may seem like we are all a bunch of redneck racists, I can assure you we are not. Ive found that, at least with myself, exposure to other cultures can do wonders for not only understanding other people, but yourself. I feel for the people who were unjustly targeted and I really hope that as a community we can get past this.
I believe that with the combination of the media's portrayals and the fact that we have such a small minority population, people really have no choice than to feel threatened. Dr Alban noted that he has lived/been to many countries, but the simple fact is that most Aggies have not. Some have never SEEN a person of another race in person much less had to deal with conflicting cultures. It may be ignorance to you, but to many its a way of life perpetuated by circumstance.
Tolerance goes both ways and so does hate.
However, I do believe that everyone is racist to a certain extent. But that doesnt mean you have to act upon it purposfully. Ive seen a picture of the kkk leading the aggie band into Kyle. Racism is defintely a factor here because it was built into the founding of our College and our state.
While it may seem like we are all a bunch of redneck racists, I can assure you we are not. Ive found that, at least with myself, exposure to other cultures can do wonders for not only understanding other people, but yourself. I feel for the people who were unjustly targeted and I really hope that as a community we can get past this.
I believe that with the combination of the media's portrayals and the fact that we have such a small minority population, people really have no choice than to feel threatened. Dr Alban noted that he has lived/been to many countries, but the simple fact is that most Aggies have not. Some have never SEEN a person of another race in person much less had to deal with conflicting cultures. It may be ignorance to you, but to many its a way of life perpetuated by circumstance.
Tolerance goes both ways and so does hate.
The Don of CST
posted 4/20/07 @ 8:12 PM CST
I'm a regular at the Hookah Station and do promotions for them. I bring in many different groups of people and make sure everyone has a good time. I wasn't there the night this happened, but I did inquire about it when I heard of what happened.
I try to keep good relations with people here in town, as not only did I grow up here, but I to have heart for A&M and College Station.
I've been to many clubs, and yes I'm African America, for simple following rules of the clubs dress code and approaching with an adult attitude and since of common respect, I've never been turned away or charged a entry fee (only times I was, I was under 21, which is a common thing that happens),
If its the Hookah Station, Gatsby's, The Groove, of even Belvedere in Up Town Park, Houston, which attracts Celebrities and High Profile people, simply dress to their code and act adult you should have no problem.
Bouncers are already on edge, because they have to catch slip ups quickly to not jeopardize the mood in the club. So if you are acting inappropriate, you will draw attention to yourself and most likely be asked to leave.
By all means email me if you would like to further discuss this issue.
Steve
The Don of College Station
Omega_fire69@hotmail.com
I try to keep good relations with people here in town, as not only did I grow up here, but I to have heart for A&M and College Station.
I've been to many clubs, and yes I'm African America, for simple following rules of the clubs dress code and approaching with an adult attitude and since of common respect, I've never been turned away or charged a entry fee (only times I was, I was under 21, which is a common thing that happens),
If its the Hookah Station, Gatsby's, The Groove, of even Belvedere in Up Town Park, Houston, which attracts Celebrities and High Profile people, simply dress to their code and act adult you should have no problem.
Bouncers are already on edge, because they have to catch slip ups quickly to not jeopardize the mood in the club. So if you are acting inappropriate, you will draw attention to yourself and most likely be asked to leave.
By all means email me if you would like to further discuss this issue.
Steve
The Don of College Station
Omega_fire69@hotmail.com
Valerie
posted 7/01/07 @ 4:44 AM CST
Awesome. Same thing happened to me and my friend (African-American) tonight at Hookah Station. Good thing they didn't let him in...he's super dangerous and scary. Oh wait, he's actually smarter and more accomplished than most other people I have met in College Station.
sam
posted 10/18/07 @ 1:33 PM CST
Texas A&M sucks!!! HOOK 'EM HORNS!!!!
DoseOfRealism
posted 10/18/07 @ 3:40 PM CST
I guess it is only whites here in Texas, that have not seen the world, that are racist and bigoted. here is an article written in National Geographics about "worldly" places I'm sure having trouble getting into a bar really compares.
"More than 160 million people in India are considered "Untouchable"--people tainted by their birth into a caste system that deems them impure, less than human.
Human rights abuses against these people, known as Dalits, are legion. A random sampling of headlines in mainstream Indian newspapers tells their story: "Dalit boy beaten to death for plucking flowers"; "Dalit tortured by cops for three days"; "Dalit 'witch' paraded naked in Bihar"; "Dalit killed in lock-up at Kurnool"; "7 Dalits burnt alive in caste clash"; "5 Dalits lynched in Haryana"; "Dalit woman gang-raped, paraded naked"; "Police egged on mob to lynch Dalits"."
"More than 160 million people in India are considered "Untouchable"--people tainted by their birth into a caste system that deems them impure, less than human.
Human rights abuses against these people, known as Dalits, are legion. A random sampling of headlines in mainstream Indian newspapers tells their story: "Dalit boy beaten to death for plucking flowers"; "Dalit tortured by cops for three days"; "Dalit 'witch' paraded naked in Bihar"; "Dalit killed in lock-up at Kurnool"; "7 Dalits burnt alive in caste clash"; "5 Dalits lynched in Haryana"; "Dalit woman gang-raped, paraded naked"; "Police egged on mob to lynch Dalits"."
anthony
posted 10/18/07 @ 5:31 PM CST
This is why I love Austin. Not that racism doesn't exist here. It exists everywhere. But, it definitely is in the very small minority and vigorously ridiculed by the majority. Small towns like CS breed this sort of behavior.
All I can say is fight the Man! Or, just come to Austin, where we love everyone! We even love you aggies most of the time.
All I can say is fight the Man! Or, just come to Austin, where we love everyone! We even love you aggies most of the time.
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Erin
posted 4/13/07 @ 10:16 AM CST