Prometheus 6

A certain young black man fills all the squares. College educated to the hilt (double-major in liberal arts subjects, dean’s list more than once), he’s brilliant and accomplished. He’s a member of Mensa. He interned with a US senator. He was a Rhodes Scholar candidate. Here’s a man who could have nearly any career desired, likely with many benefits, monetary and otherwise. But what does he want to do? He wants to give something back, give a hand up to young men (and women) who may be inspired by him: he applies to become a teacher in the metro Atlanta counties (large black population).

Surely, the school district officials there would be appreciative of their good fortune at this exceptionally qualified teacher falling into their laps. Not. This young man, Marquis Harris, received this missive through email:

"Though your qualifications are quite impressive, I regret to inform you that we have selected another candidate. It was felt that your demeanor and therefore presence in the classroom would serve as an unrealistic expectation as to what high school students could strive to achieve or become. However, it is highly recommended that you seek employment at the collegiate level; there your intellectual comportment would be greatly appreciated. Good luck." [Bold mine, -Ed.]

How about that? Marquis Harris is a freak of nature, or so says the principal that refused him employment. Oh, not in so many words, of course, but the implication is clear: it’s not realistic for young black students to achieve through his/her merits alone; they usually aren’t capable of it. So, to have a living, breathing example of achievement before them day in and day out would only serve to rile up those docile, inferior darkie slaves discourage them. They might start thinking that they really don’t need Affirmative Action and that some just might accept them for their proven, enumerated abilities and demonstrable work ethic.

Can’t have that, now can we?