One of the most prestigious universities in the country is mandating that any student attending and studying must get vaccinated with the flu shot and provide proof of medical documentation before they are allowed to return for classes in the new year.
That is, any white students.
Cornell University instituted the mandatory vaccine program back in the fall semester and continuing into 2021 as part of the school’s “Behavioral Compact” designed to keep medical services and resources available for COVID-19 cases, and not be taxed by the flu.
Unless your skin is a certain color, in which case you may tax away.
The Ivy League school is offering a race-based exemption, with black students, indigenous students, and other persons of color exempt from having to be vaccinated and provide proof, due to “historical injustices” perpetrated on them by white folk.
Cornell’s Health page “especially for students of color,” explains why this doesn’t apply to black and brown students:
We recognize that, due to longstanding systemic racism and health inequities in this country, individuals from some marginalized communities may have concerns about needing to agree to such requirements. For example, historically, the bodies the of Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC) have been mistreated, and used by people in power, sometimes for profit or medical gain. It is understandable that the current Compact requirements may feel suspect or even exploitative to some BIPOC members of the Cornell community. Additionally, recent acts of violence against Black people by law enforcement may contribute to feelings of distrust or powerlessness.
While the university still strongly desires BIPOC students get vaccinated, any persons of color will be given an exception if they cite their racial identity as a cause for wanting to decline.
If you’re white. however, no such luck.
Prepare for the needle.
