Ms. Considine explains
From Torg Adventure
"I know that what I'm about to say is old news to most of you here," Ms. Considine says. "But for he benefit of our new colleagues, and in the hope that some enlightenment on this issue has reached this august institution over the summer, I think that we are unwise to consider maintaining a tradition that is not only archaic, but would be considered socially insensitive by the outside world."
There are a few mutters of agreement, mostly from the younger teachers, and an emphatic 'Damn straight' from the imposing Lorri McKay.
"This event raises a lot of money for charity, Ms. Considine, as you well know. Charities, I might add, that are near and dear to your heart as well." The voice belongs to the dignified Mrs. Sommersby-Walker.
"Point taken," Ms. Considine nods. "I am fully in support of raising money for charity. I remain opposed to auctioning students off for menial tasks in a display that mirrors a slave auction. Given the current social climate, and the fact that a Boston Globe reporter is sniffing around, I strongly suggest that this is the time to end this archaic charade once and for all." She takes her seat to mutters of disagreement from some, and muffled applause from others.
"While your objection is valid, there is a problem with logistics if we were to cancel the event this year," Ms. Naylor says calmly, quelling the muttering. "Considerable time, effort and expense has already been dedicated to the event, which I remind you is only two weeks away. Our friends and partners in the local business community would be very displeased, and I don't think that this is the time to throw away their good will. As to the reporter, I spoke earlier that all communication is to go through me. I suspect that she will have grown bored and gone back to Boston within a few days anyway. As to the event itself, I am more than willing to discuss changes or alternatives for future years, but I'm afraid nothing can be done for this year."
Ms. Considine glowers and shakes her head in irritation, obviously giving up for the moment. Ms. McKay gives a snort of disgust before she speaks. "Tell you one thing. All those rich white girls can get themselves auctioned off if they want, but none of the scholarship students are going to participate. None of them. No black or brown girl is getting put on an auction block like she's a Mississippi nigger in 1857. Is that clear?" She glares around the room, daring anyone to disagree. Her gaze is met with nods of agreement or cowed looks of submission, but no one vocalises opposition.
"Point noted," Ms. Naylor says calmly. "Now unless someone has other business to raise, the meeting is adjourned. I remind you to check your schedule for tomorrow's orientation meetings and the weekend duty requirements, as well as chaperone assignments for the annual Hamilton/Pink Rose social next weekend. Other than that, you're free to go."
What's next?
