In the spring, all over the country, and certainly especially in the
South, the eyes of Americans will look toward the spokesman of the Supreme
Court as he hands down the decision of the nine Chief Justices as to whether
or not to abolish segregation in the public schools of the South.
Since this decision will directly affect the students of Grady High School,
the Southerner has polled a small percentage of the classes in order to
find a segment of the opinion of the school.
Most revealing fact of the poll is that any number of people did not know the correct definition of the word segregation!
Webster's Dictionary defines it as "the act of separating from others or from a mass," such as in separating the white children from the colored children in the schools.
From its limited poll, the Southerner learned the fact that 45% of Grady students polled want segregation, 32% are against it, and 23% either have no opinion or feel that it should be allowed to take its own natural course.
The feelings of some are expressed in this statement:
"As far as I know, the people that want segregation are those that are already out of school!"
While others think:
"If we did have mixed schools, I think it would lead to world friendship."
Opinions of all differ:
"I don't think the colored people would want to go to school with us
any more than we would want to go to school with them.
"I think the idea of private corporations taking over the schools is excellent, if it can be worked out."
"Segregation is a display of narrow- mindedness, prejudice, and bigotry. If all men are created equal as so many profess, why then are some people, because of the color of their skin, deprived of the advantages, the opportunities, and the facilities offered to all Americans?"
One's religion decides the matter for some:
"Although it may be selfish on my part I am in favor of any form of segregation. In God's eyes, we are all created equal, and that is what counts? I don't believe (and hope) we will ever have anything except segregation here."
"The doctrines and beliefs of the religions of our country acknowledge
the one God who reigns over all , and that all, including the Negro, are
brothers. How should you treat your brother?"
Others take this attitude:
"Mixing colored children with white children must not be forced upon
the South. Gradual change, however, will certainly come when people become
educated enough to realize the fact that 'All men are created equal' and
that each person has an equal chance in this wonderful democracy of ours.
"
"Those who do not honor non-segregation do not respect the unalienable rights of man. Jew or Gentile, white or black, Yankee or Rebel, no man should be below the social status of another."
"A sudden repeal of segregation laws would throw the South into chaos and make prejudice rampant once again. Segregation will be abolished with time. Let's let it take its own course."
By way of conclusion, a Grady senior sums up the opinions of those who are against segregation:
"Segregation, I believe, tends to demoralize the character of our nation."