[u-89]

>rejection would hurt morale, especially among young blacks.

> "It's very important when you see something that stands for you. It gives you self-esteem," said Burrell

I find the modern superficial concept of self esteem fascinating. I imagine people who live in towns like Downsville, Red Dirt, or Muddy Creek could do a lot better in life if they renamed their towns MLKville.

But if the people of Grand Rapids want to change the name that bad they should make a Federal issue out of it. They should claim their civil rights are being denied because of racism and they'll get their way. Hell, it's an election year, they should send a letter to the White House and demand action - they'll probably get it.

[truthingod]

Most folks in Grand Rapids do not support a name change.
It seems to be an issue for a power struggle which won't quit. I think these folks are upset that the Van Andel's and the Devos's have their names on the hospitals and arenas and the convention center, etc. If they want to honor people of color, then I nominate Bishop William Abney.
The name change should reflect someone from the community and their contribution to the community.

[moodyskeptic]

"It's very important when you see something that stands for you. It gives you self-esteem," said Burrell

A university study 2 years ago examined the whole "black teenage self-esteem problem" and was surprised to find no self esteem problem. In fact, the opposite was true, they had too much confidence and self esteem... to a fault. Their esteem was built on a house of cards and shallow posessions. Fashion, hair, jewelry, cars, etc.

As you might imagine, the sudy was quickly buried by the press. Doesn't fit the template.