Friday, January 23, 2004

Sex Abuse Scandal at the Boys Choir of Harlem

This week I cover the Boys Choir of Harlem sex abuse scandal in my Black Commentator column. The whole sorry episode exemplifies much that is wrong in black communities. This crisis presents in microcosm how the lack of effective leadership weakens black institutions.

On January 22nd the Choir reached an agreement with the New York City Department of Education forcing Dr. Walter Turnbull to give up his title of executive director by February 17. He will then assume the role of artistic director. His brother, Horace Turnbull, must resign as executive vice president, also by February 17. The New York Times gives an update.