Racial stereotypes and the recent campus threat were discussed Thursday night.

The Phi Rho Eta Fraternity Inc. and E.L.I.T.E. (Elegant Leaders Introducing Tasteful Entertainment) hosted the program, “Killing the Stereotypes” in the Stevenson Multipurpose Room. NIU’s Equity and Diversity department helped organize the event.

The program highlighted problems such as racism, stereotypes and prejudice. A panel of eight, as well as more than 50 audience members, discussed various issues.

Those serving on the panel answered questions and shared their experiences with stereotypes. Marlon Haywood, a junior biological science major, and Tymesia Mason, a senior textile payroll merchandising major, led the panel portion of the evening.

Mason thinks that students must confront stereotypes seriously. Mason hoped audience members would examine stereotypes more thoroughly in their own lives and take control.

“Prove the stereotype wrong, take the higher road and beat it,” Mason said.

The program began with a group activity that helped demonstrate common stereotypes. Audience and panel members were given a slip of paper with words and phrases on it. Some of the words included “stupid,” “preppy,” “small eyes” and “rap music.” Audience members would read the word and then have to associate it with a race. Audience members were asked why they associated particular words with races.

The second part of the program showcased testimonies from the participants, including NIU Police Chief Donald Grady. Grady said some stereotypes have a base in reality but thinks attitudes toward negative stereotypes must change.

“We bear the responsibilities for changing these stereotypes,” Grady said.

Audience members answered and submitted questions for panel members. To implement this program, surveys were passed out on campus compiling data.

They found, according to some panel members, that stereotypes can be “self–fulfilling prophecies.” As the program concluded, audience members were invited to stay for an open discussion.

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