Editor, The Herald:

This is in response to the front page article of Wednesday, July 16, 2014.

As I read this article I became more and more incensed at the arrogance of Mr. James Ghee and his demand for an “official apology” from Longwood University. Dr. Reveley had already indicated that he was quite sorry for Longwood’s participation in the “Massive Resistance Efforts” in the past. I strongly suggest no further apology be given!

Mr. Ghee arrogantly stated that “most of us in the black community do not trust Longwood.” I take exception to that because those in the black community that I know certainly appreciate Longwood.

My question to Mr. Ghee would be “Who do you think you are?” Longwood University, a major employer and positive influence in this community, has amply demonstrated that “Massive Resistance” was wrong and should not have happened. However, I doubt seriously that anyone currently involved in the administration of Longwood participated in the massive resistance program. Therefore an “Official Apology” is not at all required!

“Massive Resistance” is what it was! It was wrong then and would be wrong now, but it was part of the culture of that time! That having been said, it’s time for Mr. Ghee and others like him to move on and appreciate the progress that has been made. The more you stir stuff that stinks, the worse it smells and so it’s time for Mr. Ghee to stop stirring!

Much progress has been made! Blacks have representation on the town council, a black just narrowly missed being elected as Mayor of Farmville, we have a black sheriff in Prince Edward County, and most business establishments in Farmville have a large black representation. I don’t think any of this is due to Mr. Ghee or the NAACP. I think that it is due to the natural progression resulting from the cessation of “massive resistance”. Equal Opportunity is the law of the land and I believe Longwood is in total compliance with this.

And so I would say to Mr. Ghee: if your position in the Prince Edward County NAACP requires you to be a rabble-rouser, requires you to live in the past, and requires you to impugn the reputation of an outstanding educational institution, then I suggest you get a new job. America needs positive leadership in all activities! I suggest that you try providing that!

Furman Joye

Prospect