In this 1991 episode, Jobman Caravan addresses increasing civil rights complaints on college campuses, celebrates academic excellence as part of African American heritage, and examines prostate cancer's disproportionate impact on Black men. Host Bill Terrell also profiles horse trainer Edward "Booty" Taylor and explores the specialized field of histotechnology.
Civil Rights Complaints on College Campuses
Louis Bryson, director of the post-secondary education division office for civil rights, reports a significant increase in discrimination complaints at predominantly white colleges and universities. "What used to be overt acts of discrimination have now become somewhat covert and therefore makes it even more difficult for students on campuses," Bryson explains.
Students experiencing discrimination in housing, financial assistance, grades, or other campus experiences can file complaints with the Office for Civil Rights under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. However, few institutions inform students of this right. After receiving a complaint, the office investigates by interviewing affected parties, faculty, and administrators. Bryson notes they find cause in about 60% of cases and achieve corrective action in nearly 100% of cases. The ultimate consequence for non-compliance is loss of federal funding.
Academic Excellence as African Heritage
The episode strongly emphasizes that academic success is deeply rooted in African American heritage, countering stereotypes that label high-achieving students as "nerds." Students like 15-year-old Travis Sally, a 6'5" basketball star and honor student, demonstrate that athletic and academic excellence can coexist.
As Dr. Donald Smith explains: "Human existence began in Africa, that the origins of scholarship were in Africa, the first universities there, and that they need take second place to no one, and that to study and to be a high academic achiever is not quite as many of them have been told, but it's in fact African in origin."
Parents play a crucial role in motivating academic achievement, and experts emphasize that education providing both academic and cultural excellence is the best protection for young people in society.
Horse Training Profile: Edward "Booty" Taylor
Edward Taylor, known as "Booty," has spent over 30 years training American Saddlebred horses at his Mary Lane Farms in Eastover, South Carolina. Starting as a 10-year-old cleaning stables, he's become one of the most respected trainers on the East Coast.
American Saddlebreds are prized for their animated yet manageable nature, competing as three-gaited (walk, trot, canter) or five-gaited horses (adding four-gait and rack). Taylor's horses command high prices as well. One bay horse mentioned was valued at $25,000, with potential buyers offering $35,000. His business includes training, stud service, and sales.
Histotechnology Career Spotlight
The episode profiles histotechnology, a specialized health field requiring an understanding of organic chemistry and biology. Histotechnologist Johnny Johnson at Lexington Hospital works with pathologists to prepare microscope slides for disease diagnosis.
The process involves tissue preservation through rapid freezing or a 24-hour process using formalin, alcohol, and paraffin wax to slice tissue to one-cell thickness. Histotechnologists require four-year degrees, while histo-technicians need two years of training. Starting salaries range from $12,000 to $14,000, with advancement opportunities available.
Prostate Cancer Awareness
The episode highlights that African American men have the highest prostate cancer rates worldwide, with the disease affecting them at earlier ages and with more aggressive forms. Dr. James Mason explains that Black men "get prostate cancer at an earlier age. The cancer tends to be more aggressive, and the five-year survival rate is less."
Annual digital rectal exams are recommended for all men over 45, as early-stage prostate cancer has no symptoms. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and reduces complications, including potential sexual impairment concerns.
Side Notes
- Students can file civil rights complaints with the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights
- American Saddlebred training requires teaching horses artificial gaits like the rack and four-gait
- Histotechnologists must complete two-year apprenticeships before certification
- Prostate cancer is highly curable when detected early through regular screening
- View Jobman Caravan: Prostate Cancer for more information.
