Insights into Life as a CHARA Affiliate Member
Boston Bruins Suffer Embarrassing Loss, Captain Named Amidst Racism Discussion
The Boston Bruins have had a mixed start to the 2018-2019 NHL season. On an unfortunate note, they suffered an 8-1 loss to the defending Stanley Cup Champions, the Washington Capitals. However, the team managed to clinch a spot in the playoffs with a victory over the New Jersey Devils by a score of 3-0.
In a surprising turn of events, the Bruins also announced Brad Marchand as the 27th captain in their franchise's history. Marchand, who is heading into his 15th season at the NHL level, will lead the team through the playoffs.
Away from the ice, the Boston campus has been the centre of a discussion about racism. This discussion was sparked by an embarrassing incident that occurred on April 11th, the details of which are not yet clear. The school year ended shortly after, leaving the issue unresolved.
In an effort to address this issue, David Mahaffey '92, a current board member of the College of the Holy Cross Anti-Racism Alliance (CHARA), has been using the organization to examine his own racism and find his voice. CHARA, a student-led or community initiative focused on promoting anti-racism education and awareness within the Holy Cross community, offers educational events, workshops, and spaces for honest conversations about whiteness, privilege, and systemic racism.
David Mahaffey '92 encourages white people to avoid avoidance and embrace introspection through CHARA. He believes that acknowledging personal problems is the first step in solving them, and CHARA helped him acknowledge his own racism.
For those interested in learning more about CHARA or getting involved, they can contact the organization at [email protected] or visit their website at www.chara1843.com. David Mahaffey '92 will be joining other CHARA board members on campus on February 18 for relevant discussions in Hogan (4th floor).
The incident that sparked the racism discussion on campus was not the first of its kind. In April 1992, there was a fight by the fieldhouse at Holy Cross, which was rumored to stem from the Rodney King verdict. The fight resulted in minor injuries and was broken up before it could become a tragedy.
As the Bruins prepare for the playoffs, the college community continues to address issues of racism and work towards a more inclusive environment.
- The Boston Bruins' captain, Brad Marchand, is focusing on the upcoming playoffs, yet the college community remains focused on addressing issues of racism.
- A student-led initiative at Boston's College of the Holy Cross, CHARA, offers workshops and spaces for honest conversations about race and racism.
- Personal growth and education on anti-racism are essential for the entire Holy Cross community, as recent issues have highlighted the need for awareness and understanding.
- Sports events like the Bruins' playoffs might divert attention temporarily, but working towards personal growth and a more inclusive campus environment should be a priority for everyone, as evidenced by initiatives like CHARA.
