Three Prominent Black Indianapolis Business Men Resign from Highland Golf & Country Club Alleging Racism

Three prominent black Indianapolis business men have abruptly resigned their memberships at the prestigious Highland Golf and Country Club over allegations of racism. According to the Indianapolis Star, Lacy M. Johnson and Carl L. Drummer, both of law firm Ice Miller, and Samuel L. Odle, an executive vice president at Clarian Health, have resigned.

They say that on Labor Day, eight white golfers, including Highland Chairman Mark DeFabis, were allowed to cut in front of them to tee off. It was the "last straw" in what the three described as a series of questionable incidents over several years involving everything from being asked to produce identification to being seated at "less than optimal" tables to dine. Source

It should be noted that the Highland Golf and Country Club was off limits to blacks not too long ago, specifically in 1992. The acceptance of Marvin Enders, who is black, wasn't voluntary. It occurred only after a discrimination complaint was filed with the Indiana Civil Rights Commission. The club settled the complaint but didn’t admit guilt, which is not surprising. The club said Murvin Enders’ request for membership had initially been denied because of a mix-up over sponsorship requirements. Right. The notion that Highland Golf & Country or any other similar club, would be so accommodating and welcoming to blacks is far-fetched, considering their track records. Why is being the member of a country club so important? It certainly does not define one and is just another materialistic achievement to brag about for some people.

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