Last Thursday, a crowd of more than 200 students, staff and faculty convened in the Cook Hall Anheuser-Busch Auditorium to hear John Stevens discuss his experiences with racism and hate crimes.

Stevens served as the prosecutor in the `98 controversial Texas dragging death of African-American James Byrd by three white males.

During his presentation, Stevens explained how he was chosen to work on the case when local officials requested federal help to deal with the controversial case.

He also showed a video tour of the road where Byrd was dragged and killed highlighting points where evidence was collected.

“It was a very powerful presentation,” said Nick Fagan, a member of the Great Issues Committee. “James Stevens was very serious, somber but poignant.”

While a tone of sadness permeated the speech, Stevens concluded on the note that things do not have to be this way.

David Clark, advisor to Diversity Advocates, thought the speech helped promote understanding and appreciation of differences. “We can learn from one another,” he said. “But hate perpetuates hate.”

Another member the of Great Issues Committee, Brian Suda, believed the presentation was relevant to anybody.

On the other hand, Suda expressed concern that the punishment for two of the convicted men was death. “What’s different between a dragging death and the death penalty?” he questioned.

Following the presentation, the Diversity Advocates hosted a Cultural Appreciation Night. Several students recited cultural poetry. Groups of dancers performed various cultural dances from around the world. In addition, the gospel choir Melody of Praise sang two selections.