🎓

Danny Glover on EOP and 1960s Activism

Nov 23, 2024

Notes on Danny Glover's Lecture on Educational Opportunity Program and 1960s Activism

Introduction

  • Speaker: Danny Glover
  • Topic: Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) & 1960s activism at California State Universities
  • Key Message: EOP has helped over 250,000 students graduate from California State Universities over the last 30 years. It's aimed at providing access to higher education for all.

1960s Campus Activism

Social and Political Context

  • Vietnam War: Highly influential in the decade, affecting students due to the draft.
  • Civil Rights Movement: Led by figures like Martin Luther King Jr.; galvanized students into activism.
  • Campus Mood: Expectation of change and resistance against status quo.
  • Issues Raised: Vietnam War, race relations, political behavior, societal norms.

Student Activism and Rebellion

  • Anti-war Sentiment: Students against the Vietnam War and draft.
  • EOP's Role: Advocated for minority and poor students' equal opportunity in educational programs.
  • Racial Dynamics: The campus was largely white, with very few black and Chicano students.

Civil Rights Advocacy

  • Black Student Union (BSU): Formed to address prejudice; required external signatures due to a lack of minority students.
  • Student Organizations: Worked to secure scholarships for minority students.

November 4th Incident

  • Cause: Case of racism involving a coach; led to a protest and takeover of the administration building.
  • Demands: Investigation into discriminatory actions, expansion of EOP, ethnic studies programs, more minority teachers.
  • Response: Initial peaceful occupation, but rumors and police involvement escalated tensions.

January 8th and 9th Demonstrations

  • Events: March to administration building; police response with violence.
  • Aftermath: Mass arrests led to increased solidarity among students and eventual administrative concessions.

Outcomes

  • Programs Established: EOP and Ethnic Studies programs continue at the campus.
  • Legacy: Demonstrated student power in influencing university policies and promoting equality in education.

Conclusion

  • Overall Impact: The activism of the 1960s at California State University was pivotal in addressing racial inequality in higher education and expanding opportunities for minority students.

Full transcript