Students and faculty gather at candlelight vigil, collectively defy racism in America
A diverse group of student and faculty members came together on the Ped Mall to show resilience in the face of racism in America.
Photos courtesy of Jaclyn De Vries
While social strife and racial tensions grip the country, a large portion of Lee's students stand united.
The Racial Solidarity Prayer Vigil, sponsored by the Lee University Diversity Council, welcomed hundreds of students last week to a solemn time of prayer and reflection in face of racial protests currently surfacing in the nation.
President Paul Conn opened the event, held on the amphitheater grounds of The Ped Mall, challenging students and present faculty alike not to sit too comfortably in what he described as “The Lee Bubble.”
“There is no bubble. We are connected to communities and world issues, to the questions and ideas of our time,” President Conn said.
His final remarks of commencement highlighted the imminence of such vigils: "Change bring times of tension and pressure to take sides. This is such a time.”
Praying over the service and inviting various students to the microphone, Lee faculty Dr. Carolyn Dirksen spoke, “Lord, give us the courage to rise against the evil of racial hatred.”
As multiple students told of their personal encounters with racism, even some incidents here on campus, the electrified crowd hushed.
One student, Mycah Smith, peered directly into the crowds and asked the question, “How are you stepping into those uncomfortable places that Jesus has called us to?”
Another student, Franco Crosby, reminded the student body of Lee’s uniqueness among universities.
“God has called us here to Lee to be an example to other universities,” he said. “Change can start right here on this campus. We are Lee, and we can change this country.”
As the students finished their testimonies, not a single whisper could be heard from the audience.
The band broke the silence by leading the group into a time of song and praise.
The pianist in the band, Alvin Jackson, later reflected “I have people not of my color here that are supporting me and have my back…That makes me feel more safe.”
As the band transitioned from one song to another, students of all colors stood shoulder to shoulder.
All hands were raised as songs of love and prayers for peace were lifted. Candles were lit and The Ped Mall was illuminated.
Students stood holding their candles, and a moment of silence was then offered. “We ask for open eyes and open hearts,” said Dr. Dirksen.
An attending freshman, Caiden Weber, noted, “This gathering proves that Lee is on the right side of history. … We celebrate the variation within creation and everyone’s likeness in the image of God.”
The night culminated in an extended time of prayer led by numerous Vice Presidents of Lee. Staff — including Pastor Jimmy Harper, Dr. Deborah Murray, and V.P. of Admissions Phil Cook — encouraged students to reach across the aisle, stand united and daily fight the problems of racism.
The EVS Choir concluded the vigil, shouting the lyrics, “I pray for you/ You pray for me/ I love you/ I need you to survive.”
As the candles were extinguished and the tears wiped, students embraced one another and exited the amphitheater.
V.P. of Student Development Dr. Mike Hayes told Lee Clarion he remains hopeful.
“The next step is to continue the conversation” he said. “Look for diverse voices in Chapel; look for us to continue to address these things across campus."
