University of Maryland president recommends changing name of Byrd Stadium, citing legacy of segregation - The Washington Post

University of Maryland president recommends changing name of Byrd Stadium, citing legacy of segregation - The Washington Post:



"The president of the University of Maryland is recommending that Byrd Stadium be renamed, saying the segregationist legacy of the long-honored alumnus and former college leader does not align with the university’s mission. Wallace Loh announced to the U-Md. campus community Monday afternoon that he believes the new name should be Maryland Stadium. It’s an emotional issue for many in the U-Md. community, as the football stadium is one of the most visible symbols of pride and commitment to the flagship campus in College Park. But it has long had a name that for some is tied to tradition and for others to racism. The University System of Maryland Board of Regents, which has the authority to change the name, is scheduled to vote on his proposal Friday morning. Loh’s decision comes after months of student complaints that Harry Clifton “Curley” Byrd, who was president of the state university from 1936 to 1954, barred black students from enrolling until forced to do so by court order. When Byrd ran for governor, he did so as an ardent advocate for segregation. "