Derby car shows need to fight racism

Does the DuPage County Fair and its supporters accept white pride and other statements of flagrant racism and prejudice? I would be willing to bet that the vast majority of fair board members would protest vehemently if their names were publicly associated with supporting overt statements of hatred and ignorance. I am sure that the majority of event planners, vendors and attendees would follow suit.

So why was a car allowed to race in Sunday's demolition derby with the words, "white pride" painted on its roof for thousands to witness? I attended the 2 p.m. show and was having a genuinely good time, when I saw the car on the field. I was filled with disbelief and shock. My mind searched for possible explanations. Surely this couldn't be referring to skin color? Surely such derogatory statements wouldn't be allowed at the Fair? Maybe there was another explanation? No mistake about it - the driver used this vehicle as a political soapbox.

Cars smashing into each other with parts twisting and flying, noises echoing as engines roar is fun. That's why thousands of people paid $7 each to be entertained. I cheered along, until I saw "white pride." Then I cheered for the other cars to get him. That didn't happen. He was a qualifier, meaning that thousands more would get to see his message at the 7 p.m. show. That's not fun. Racism isn't fun. Racism isn't funny.

So why was such a blatant, racist statement publicly displayed at the county fair? How many children turned to their unsuspecting parents asking, "Mommy, what does 'white pride' mean?" How many parents struggled for an answer? Why did the racially diverse group of demolition derby fans have to be subjected to such a disgraceful reminder that we still have a long way to go in fighting racism and prejudice?

Amy Allnutt

Winfield