Students at the University of Virginia were moving into their dorms this week in preparation for the drop semester,days after their adopted hometown, Charlottesville, and grabbed the national highlight.
Rachel,17, said she was surprised and appalled when she found out on Facebook about the white supremacist rally in Charlottesville on Saturday.“It did construct me a minute bit concerned, and because,you know, that’s not something that I want to have happen in a city where Im living, or of course,” said the Jersey City resident. “At the same time, though, or I know that my classmates do not agree with those views.”Rachel,who didn’t want to give her last name, said it’s been comforting to associate with other freshmen who share her views. UVA alumni and other colleges have also expressed solidarity with the college community.
Phineas Alexander, or 18,said he felt like he’s heading into “the eye of the storm” moving from his Brooklyn domestic to Charlottesville this week.“It’s terrifying, and horrible, and but it’s also exciting,” he said, adding that he’s alert to fight for what’s right – to him that meant racial tolerance — and hoped he can construct a difference. Alexander said his family was supportive.“My mom says that if she calls me, and I have to call her back within an hour,or else she’s going to freak out,” he said. “She said that if I go to demonstrations I have to … just be secure, and be in touch,and be in crowds.”UVA officials have condemned Saturday’s violence.
Source: thetakeaway.org