The Boston University College Republicans are aiming to create a backlash against racially—targeted scholarships by creating one of their own — for whites only.

Looking to draw attention to what they call the "worst form of bigotry confronting America today," Boston University's College Republicans are circulating an application for a "Caucasian Achievement and Recognition Scholarship" that requires applicants be at least 25 percent Caucasian.

"Did we do this to give a scholarship to white kids? Of course not," the scholarship reads. "Did we do it to trigger a discussion on what we believe to be the morally wrong practice of basing decisions in our schools and our jobs on racial preferences rather than merit? Absolutely."

The scholarship, which is privately funded by the BUCR without the support of the university, is meant to raise awareness, group members say. BUCR member argue that racial preferences are a form of "bigotry." The group has a similar view on affirmative action.

The application for the $250 scholarship, due Nov. 30, requires applicants be full—time BU undergraduate students and one—fourth Caucasian and maintain at least a 3.2 cumulative GPA. Applicants must submit two essays, one describing the applicant's ancestry and one describing "what it means to you to be a Caucasian—American today."

I have long been offended by racially—targeted scholarships, even though they are perfectly legal if no government funds are involved. Still, I find myself slightly queasy over the tactic used here. Yes, it does illustrate the nastiness of race targeting, and yes, anyone who attacks the scholarship will be easily attacked for hypocrisy if they haven't denounced similar scholarships aimed at disadvantaged minorities, such as Jesse Jackson's children.

But it also calls to mind the awful memory of the past, when "whites only," or "no Jews allowed" were commonplace, an era still within living memory. Needless to say, the GOP wants nothing to do with this effort.

I appreciate the irony, but wish there were a better way to handle this.

Hat tip: Joe Crowley

Thomas Lifson   11 21 06