Oral History Interview with Ned Irons, March 16, 1999. Interview K-0170. Southern Oral History Program Collection (#4007).
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Abstract
Ned Irons, a high achieving white student at West Charlotte High School in Charlotte, North Carolina, discusses his experiences as a member of a racial minority at this historically black school. Irons was lured to West Charlotte by its sports programs and glowing reputation, and once there found an intellectually stimulating and socially challenging environment. Irons sees West Charlotte as a school that finds its identity in African American culture, and in learning about that culture, he jettisoned many of his prejudices. In addition to sharing his personal experiences, Irons discusses race in Charlotte, including his belief that socioeconomics can help explain segregation and his conclusions that neighborhood schools will doom Charlotte to resegregation.
Excerpts
Sports and diversity give West Charlotte its mystique
Integrated classes change student's world view
Resegregation even at well-integrated school
Stigma against academic achievement in black community
African American cultural identity of West Charlotte
History from African American perspective challenges beliefs
Post-integration problems in Charlotte
Learn More
Finding aid to the Southern Oral History Program Collection
Database of all Southern Oral History Program Collection interviews
Resources for Educators
Race in Charlotte Schools Learning Object
Subjects
School integration--North Carolina--Charlotte
West Charlotte High School (N.C.)
Charlotte (N.C.)--Race relations
Irons, Ned
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