Seeking a Community, Black Students Turn to Online Chats

At Rutgers and other campuses, other black students have created similar virtual communities. The message boards may go beyond simple communication; they create a virtual space for these students on campuses where they're in the minority. Students spread information about black-student events, ask questions about which classes they should take, and share jokes and struggles alike. And when racial tensions flare at their predominantly white institutions, the message forums are fertile ground for activism.