N.C. In 1938, when he learned UNC wanted to use documentary films in teaching, Charles was hired to launch the program at the university. Milner's uncle, Clyde, from whom he received his name, was president of Guilford and another uncle was superintendent of county schools in a county in Ohio. His maternal grandfather helped the national government develop education programs for African-Americans. Milner's Quaker roots draw from Ohio in the early 1800s. The family has maintained that affiliation ever since.
Quakers emphasize equality in race, gender, etc.
Members have a strong commitment to peace and social justice, Milner said. They believe in self-conscience, pacifism and a commitment to honesty, he explained. They believe that if called upon to swear an oath on occasions such as jury duty that there is no need to, they simply affirm their honesty. Of the two Quaker presidents, Herbert Hoover affirmed his commitment to the Constitution instead of being sworn in, while Richard Nixon decided to take the oath, he said. According to Milner this showed each president's level of commitment to his religion.