From Matty to the Debating 'Dixie' Masses

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We are at a crossroads at Dixie State College, St. George and the entire state of Utah.

The debate over “Dixie” is no longer a local one; the name change has made national headlines. The discussion is continuing and changes are being made, one of which comes in the very physical form of the Confederate statue’s removal from campus.

As we move forward toward becoming a university, whether or not the name changes, we must behave as students and professors of higher education and civil adult alumni of a college with 100 years of heritage.

The debate is becoming less of a debate and more of a childish tantrum on both sides.

If we believe change is necessary in order to remain a respected institution, we should not be demeaned and accused of having nothing better to do than destroy tradition.

And if we believe “Dixie” is indicative to St. George life and holds no synonymous value to the confederate south, then we should not be called bigots and racists.

This war is becoming less and less civil as the days go on. We are all adults and we should have one thing in mind only: the successful educations the college offers to students. Whether or not that includes the term “Dixie” should be entirely beside the point. If we must debate, let’s debate amicably and leave the name-calling to the kindergartners and the politicians.

Let’s stop throwing around ultimatums and start behaving like the collegiate scholars we aspire to be.