NAACP rally calls for Garcia probe

Terry Webster

Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2000 | 10:42 a.m.

The racial slur made last week by Clark County School District Superintendent Carlos Garcia has not died down in the black community, as evidenced by an NAACP rally Tuesday at the Zion Methodist Church in North Las Vegas.

About 60 people turned out for the event.

"As a student, I find it completely unacceptable," Tijeria Winston, a recent Bonanza High School graduate, said. "Our parents have told us it's unacceptable."

Some members of the crowd said the matter needs to be further investigated.

"I feel there are a lot of things that need to be looked at," Bill McCurdy, a political consultant, said. "We also will be forming an ad hoc committee to look at the this and determine which direction we should go in.

"Maybe it's not in the best interest of the community to have Garcia removed, simply because of the rippling effect it could have in the community. It's very unfortunate that he made those remarks, and we need to deal with those diligently."

NAACP President Gene Collins said a committee is expected to be formed by Thursday.

Garcia was invited to attend the meeting, but did not.

During an interview with high school students for a radio talk show program, Garcia said, "I never see colors. To me, people are people. I always say this and it sounds strange. Niggers come in all colors and a nigger is someone who doesn't respect themselves or any others. Everybody has them."

Garcia profusely apologized for the comment and has pointed out that it was done in the spirit of condemning racism.

"It was a poor choice of words," Marlene Monteolivo, a Hispanic community activist and public relations specialist, said. "But how many times does he have to apologize?"