Reply #65: Wow.

[BumRushDaShow]

:wtf:

Did you actually read what happened here? This day camp group didn't go into this situation to "break" some private club for some kind of political reason. They faced a situation that required them to scramble around to find a place for the children to swim, they found a place, paid their $$$, and were then confronted with the ugly reality of racism 2009-style (and not even really 2009-style... more like 1909 or 1809). I.e., IMHO, pretty blatant considering the Freudian-slip terminology (or perhaps he meant it) of the director of the facility in his use of the term "complexion".

Based on today's Philly Inquirer article http://www.philly.com/inquirer/home_region/20090709_Montco_swim_club_accused_of_racial_discrimination.html">here, their regular pool was a Y in the Frankford section of the city and that facility closed due to lack of money. So they hunted around and found a facility with a pool not too far away that indicated that they were "open for membership". They staff filled out the paperwork, paid their money, and then when they showed up with the kids, things went downhill from there - apparently thanks to the parents of other members. The article indicates that despite there being "no behavior problems", they were asked to leave. Some children and staff were quoted as overhearing disparaging comments made by the club staff.

So where in this story is there anything about "political pissing contest(s)"?

Nowhere.

This was a life lesson for the children and it can become a positive one where they can be taught how to assess people and situations and learn to adapt. But to deny that what they experienced, happened, and then have them retreat into self-segregation to "protect" them, is equally idiotic. All that does is limit exposure to other cultures and helps to reinforce stereotypes. Kids are kids and most don't care who they are playing with (... even those who speak different languages). It's all in the quest for having fun.

Racism is taught.