Because of the extremely difficult position of the Black Studies Department, which is operating in a new and hostile environment, with many Black faculty members who were recruited in various departments to to help implement the Black Studies Program, the position of chairman calls for an extremely unique individual.

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He must be dynamic and creative when dealing with the administration and other departments on campus. He must stand firm against all setbacks from hostile elements and defend the concept and realities of the Black Studies Program. Above all, he must instill within the Black faculty and students confidence in both his ability as an administrator and his sincerity in the best interest of the program. He must embody and display those characteristics which bring about the respect and trust of all segments of the Black community. He must be able to put aside his personal wishes and considerations and deal in a cooperative spirit with the Black faculty and students. He must be more responsive to the Black community than to the administration. This individual must promote unity between faculty and students and promote the general security and welfare of both, while engaging in their common task---the liberation of Black people. 

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Dr. Fisher has displayed none of these qualities. He neither displays a knowledge of the concept of Black studies nor seems to endeavor to gain such knowledge. His competence as an administrator leaves much to be desired. He has not acted dynamically or creatively in the pursuit of Black studies except for the initiation programs which would chiefly benefit white students. He has not worked in the spirit of unity and harmony or promoted either, but has on at least three occasions deliberately undermined the intent and decisions of the Kaaba. Dr. Fisher has proceeded to do his own thing against the advice of the advisory board and without even informing them of the budget of the department. He has not organized or utilized the full potential of or consulted the Black faculty towards the goals of Black studies and maintains neither their respect nor confidence. Similarly, he has disrespected student wishes and opinions and we now voice our disapproval in his ability to function as our leader. 

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One of the basic tenets of the new Black movement in America is that the group is more important than the individual. We do not feel that Dr. Fisher is more important than the success of the Black studies program at UCSB. We therefore present our opinion on this matter to the advisory board. 

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Black Student Committee for Black Studies