Negro Digest - Freedom Archives

curriculum and philosophy, is in a unique position to deal both with the
ills of our society and with the human consequences of its derelictions .
As an integral part of the community itself, the institution can and must
be creatively and flexibly responsive to the community's needs, as well
as to those of the individual inhabitants . Where necessary, the College
must serve as a catalytic agent to synthesize the varied components of the
community into a viable force for liberation . Never losing sight of the
individual, the contemporary educational institution must be concerned
at all times with massive changes of social and economic conditions which
may enhance the community's potential for successful self-determination .
Creative response to educational needs becomes, in consequence, only
one, even if the most important, of the educational institution's responsibilities
. Leadership, where there is a void, and unlimited supportive assistance,
where there is a need, represent the basic tenets of a practical
philosophy of commitment that views liberation of any oppressed people
as the specific charge for all democratic institutions . If education can
not participate enthusiastically in achieving this aim, it does not deserve
to exist. Finally, if education does not begin to educate for the kind of
humaness implicit in some of the aforegoing paragraphs, education will
cease to exist, a victim of its own inertia .*
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"Education is an important element in the struggle
for human rights . It is the means to help our children
and people rediscover their identity and
thereby increase self-respect . Education is our
passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to
the people who prepare for it today ."
-Malcolm X
* I wish to acknowledge the contributions and inspiration of Staff and
students at Malcolm X College .
Charles G . Hurst Jr., author of "Malcolm X : A Community College
With A New Perspective," is president of the college he describes in
the article . A former professor at Howard University in Washington,
D . C ., Dr . Hurst has brought to a tax-supported institution the revolutionary
principles aimed at preparing Black people to deal with their
real problems . He is a pioneer .
March 1970 NEGRO DIGEST