Winsky column brings up a good point

I have to say that I was impressed with the Wildcat's decision to print an article discussing the appalling events that occurred on the campus of Auburn University. I had actually seen and read the facts of the case two weeks prior to the Wildcat's publication and did not expect it to make the news in our school newspaper

Winsky raised a very notable point: that racism is indeed "alive and well." Contrary to the belief that the issue of racism is overly stated, it still exists despite slavery having been abolished. The abolition of slavery did not put an end to racism and discrimination.

Yes, people still prance around in Ku Klux Klan costumes, and yes, some people still find the persecution of African Americans entertaining. It's sick, but true. My only hope is that people will read Ms. Winsky's article and take it to heart.

Racism is most definitely not confined to Auburn University; soon after the bombing on Sept. 11, the words "Kill those Sand-Niggers" were found scrawled on the Wall of Expression. They were most likely written by some ignorant student on our very own campus. I hope the Wildcat continues to publicize notable events such as these, because it is an issue that affects all of us, regardless of color or race.

Lina Richardson

undeclared sophomore

UA Delta Sigma Phi's denounce Auburn chapter

I would like to take a moment and offer my apology to those that were affected by the actions of our Auburn chapter. The actions were truly deplorable and served as a nasty reminder to the times of old. It is my pledge today that all of our brothers will double our efforts to make a stronger commitment to diversity and that our campus understands the true ideals for which we stand.

The Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity here at the University of Arizona and as a national fraternity, has maintained a strong record of diversity. Our local chapter has publicly denounced the actions of our Auburn chapter. As a national fraternity we have committed recourses to making sure every brother understands the ramifications for the actions at Auburn.

Our efforts will not waiver as we begin the process to rebuild the ideals for which we were founded and so that the world will be ever convinced of the sincerity of our purpose. Once again, I offer my sincere apologies for all affected in this situation. We look forward to the challenges that lie ahead and look forward to the process of rebuilding respect within our university.

Josh Maxwell

political science junior

ASUA senator

UA Beta Theta Pi disgusted by Auburn chapter

This letter is regarding the incident that recently occurred at Auburn University in which members of Beta Theta Pi fraternity participated in a disgusting display of bigotry and ignorance.

When the members of that chapter decided to paint their faces black, and further engage in completely inappropriate activities, they directly broke the principles that Beta Theta Pi was founded on, and the standards by which every member is called to live by. Beta Theta Pi has been on the forefront of addressing the existence of problems within fraternities, and has taken big strides in the improvement of greek systems everywhere through the Men of Principle Initiative.

The initiative calls for higher standards being placed on members of Beta Theta Pi in a variety of areas, including conduct. The University of Arizona chapter of Beta Theta Pi completely supports the general fraternity's decision to disband the chapter at Auburn University. We were just as disgusted by the actions of those members as everyone else, and it has angered us that by their actions they have tarnished the reputation of Beta Theta Pi as a whole.

Darren Goodman

political science junior

Beta Theta Pi president

Cruz letter biased

In response to Eric Cruz's letter, I would like to point out a few things. I too am a political science senior, and I feel that in the university environment and within the poly-sci classes offered, you are pulling out biased facts you probably had to look up for a paper.

If this war is all about oil, than tell that to the thousands of people in mourning right now at the loss of husbands, wives, fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, etc. Also, your quip about human rights is a little one-sided. Who do you think is defending your country? The lives of all of the men and women in the armed forces are at risk as well. Are these people not humans? Citizens of your own country? But forget about them, right? They only provide the security you so enjoy.

I would also like to point out that I am sure you would not be happy with the government if you had to pay $4.50 a gallon because of our lack of interest in oil. Not to mention you seem to leave out the beneficial things the United States has done for other countries. But, I am sure that once you graduate and start paying taxes, your liberal views of an altered and horribly Republican world will change.

By the way, as a U.S. citizen, you should have some loyalty; otherwise, if you don't like the country or the policies, leave. I hear Afghanistan is beautiful.

Heather Roff

political science senior