The article, Thomas Jefferson is Next Target, addresses recent issues at William & Mary and the University of Missouri Columbia, where students demonstrated their objection to the representation and prominence of Thomas Jefferson on their campuses. It is a trend that has emerged across campuses in the United States of students discontent with their university’s recognition of controversial historical figures. The students argue that the presence and positive representation of such figures contradicts and reverses the progress made towards civil rights for black community in the United States. Applying the analysis of historical, managerial, legal and developmental studies to the Thomas Jefferson is Next Target issue establishes educated and strong resolution practices.
History and Philosophy of Higher Education The history of higher education in the United States is older than the nation itself, establishing over 370 years’ worth of material and experiences (Schuh, Jones, Harper, & Assoc, 2011, p. 3). Historical and philosophical competencies allow professionals the opportunity to learn and adapt their practices in order to …show more content…
Recognition of the over 370 years of inequality and oppression that the black community has faced allows the professionals at William & Mary and the University of Missouri to better understand the frustration of their students. Awareness of the historical struggle for justice and equality provides context for why Jefferson’s prominence and solely positive representation on campus is a step back and contradicts many current goals of diversity and equality. These lessons should not only encourage further discussions about Jefferson but also inspire practitioners to become more aware of similar circumstances across their