Guest column: Wanting Black back

Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter."

Diversity is about more than just superficial differences. Diversity is also about diverse ideas, perspectives and philosophies.

Diversity only goes so far if there is a lack of variance regarding ideas, visions and perspectives. Race, culture, gender, physical qualities, socioeconomic standing, religion and sexual orientation are all, without question, important aspects of diversity.

However, a room full of individuals who are different racially cannot foster diversity if they all possess limited views. Strong individuals and organizations that have a proven track record of commitment toward ameliorating the overall standard of diversity is a giant step in the right direction. Tangible measurements of whether a community truly supports diversity can no longer be predicated on superficial forms of diversity — they must be measured by their overall commitment, actions, ideas and philosophies regarding diversity. A man who has always worked for this high standard is Associate Provost for Diversity and Equity Cordell Black.

Black's steadfast commitment to diversity and equity is unequivocally irrefutable. During Black's 18 years in the administration, he has provided innumerable opportunities for a diverse array of students and faculty alike. His indelible impact can be best understood when you speak to the many people who have benefited from his unrivaled leadership.

When I came to the university as a fledgling academic professional, Black provided me with mentorship and guidance. I, however, am not novel — Black has provided such mentorship to a great number of members of the university community. Year in and year out, I have observed his commitment to providing the university community with a substantive model for taking diversity to higher levels through his actions. Black understands what needs to be done if the university is to achieve national prominence as an institution that consistently fosters a wide range of diversity. He is, without question, a unique administrator. In essence, he is the perfect individual for the position he currently holds.

Black can often be seen at an assortment of diversity-related programs, regardless of whether his office directly sponsored them or not. He does not show his face at these events only to leave prematurely — he stays for the duration. When some socially limited individual(s) hung a noose outside of Nyumburu Cultural Center, it was Black who immediately came to Nyumburu in order to personally offer his support to our staff, bringing scores of students with him. Without the likes of  Black, there would be no Nyumburu Cultural Center. It is these types of actions that speak to the quality of his character. He is committed to the overarching mission that his position entails.

If Black is not reinstated to work in his associate provost position, the university community will suffer, namely with regard to diversity. Black is a visionary and has many more years of quality service to give to the university within his administrative role. He can truly never be replaced.

There are myriad students, faculty, staff and community members who know how negative the impact will be if Black is not retained as associate provost for equity and diversity. They know the giant steps backward comprehensive diversity will take if Black cannot keep this job. Those thousands of community members, including myself, are fighting to uphold the integrity of diversity at this university.

His unique vision surrounding diversity is needed now more than ever. Black has given much of his heart and soul to this university. For this reason and so many more, he deserves to retain his position and continue to progressively fight to improve diversity at the university.

Solomon Comissiong is the assistant director for student involvement at Nyumburu Cultural Center. He can be reached at solomon at umd dot edu.