Recently, the word “care” has become one of the most common terms used to describe a feeling we all want. But what is care? As a noun, it is defined as: the provision of what is necessary for the health, welfare, maintenance and protection of someone or something. As a verb, its definition is: feel concern or interest; attach importance to something. Given the times, it’s no wonder we all want to feel care.
Care is a fundamental human need like food and water. We are born needing care to survive, and we depend on others to provide that care. As we develop, we learn to recognize and appreciate care. We look up to and emulate what we perceive as care in order to care for others. This cycle sustains life and allows us to flourish. Care is naturally human-based. Given the origins of care, we are more likely to care for people like ourselves. To fully understand the implications of this, we must be honest about who we are and who we view as different.
When people began to form institutions and organizations, they were often associated with care. It certainly makes them more appealing and less threatening. They however only reflect the level of care of the individuals who comprise them.
Charlottesville is a town of many organizations and institutions. Historically, the two largest institutions have been slavery and the University of Virginia. Lately, the intertwined relationship between the two is getting some overdue attention. Present day ramifications are still coming to light. We must take a closer look at the role care has played to better understand what is happening. Local Black peoples sometimes refer to UVA as “The Plantation” for good reason. It was designed by Thomas Jefferson and influenced by his plantation, Monticello. Many of the architectural features at both locations serve the same purpose: hiding the people who provided care from view. One can notice that focusing one’s attention away from the enslaved people was a key element of his designs.
Over the years, I have watched UVA attempt to pivot its relationship with the local Black community. Unfortunately, these efforts have had limited returns. One reason I believe this happened is that UVA has tried to rebrand itself as a caring institution without acknowledging this is fundamentally not true. From its inception, the purpose of UVA was to prepare the next generation of privileged white males. The enslaved, and later the entrapped, Black people of the community were used to provide care. Expanding the ranks of the privileged to include women and other races did little to change the formula. UVA’s recent outreach efforts are based on the notion that it cares about the community. The truth is: Charlottesville hosts the university. Without the care and labor of Charlottesville, UVA would not be what it is today. Sadly, the opposite is also true. The plight many Black people find themselves in is due to a lack of concern by UVA.
"Opinion" - Google News
August 25, 2020 at 07:58AM
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Commentary/Opinion: 'Hoo Cares? - Charlottesville Tomorrow
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