The elementary school I attended had no cafeteria, no auditorium, and had outdoor toilets. It was named for George Mason. All of the teachers were Black; the principal was white. I learned that George Mason was an early American patriot who believed that education and commitment could lead to the fullest participation in the American dream.
The office of the governor of Virginia is adorned with the pictures of our first governor, Thomas Jefferson; our second, Patrick Henry; and the third being the choice of the elected governor. I chose George Mason. Though he had never been elected governor, I chose him.
I wonder how he would feel today about the university which bears his name and its treatment of its first president of color.
Gregory Washington, president of George Mason University, is being assailed and publicly maligned for promoting antisemitism therein without a scintilla of evidence from his accusers to substantiate the claims.
He is not the only person of color heading our colleges and universities being subjected to specious and questionable charges. Cedric Wins, president of VMI was also subjected to undue criticism.
Fortunately, we have in our commonwealth the right to properly investigate and determine the facts relevant to these charges.
I am confident that our leaders will avail themselves thereof.
The administration of justice cannot flourish in an atmosphere of suspicion and doubt. I have confidence that the people will be served. The time is now.
Stay tuned.
