Hagler comic outstanding
I want Josh Hagler to know that your comic is the only reason I pick up a copy of the Wildcat. I love the fact that it bewilders, amuses and challenges me all at once, not to mention the fantastic artwork.
Sarah Bethany
history sophomore
Simpson's letter against democracy
I am writing in response to Pam Simpson's letter, "Durrani column absurd, shocking." While she is undoubtedly entitled to her opinion of Durrani's column and of similar views expressed by others, her self-professed patriotism seems to miss the point with her comment that "People like Durrani may please exit the nearest border · "
In fact, this country is unique precisely because people like herself and Durrani are able to openly express their views without being imprisoned, persecuted, or, in this case, asked to leave. This is the ideal that Simpson's family of war veterans has fought for in the past, and it is the same ideal that the 1960s protesters believed in with their "signs and tie-dye colored T-shirts." What's more, the current war on terrorism is being justified by our government on the grounds of protecting this same ideal as a part of the American way of life.
"Patriotism" should not obscure the fact that everyone is entitled to question and speak out against the actions taken by our government. True patriotism is a commitment to the American ideals, including the right to disagree with the current government and to publicly express these misgivings.
It is a wonderful and healthy sign for democracy if people want to debate the issues. But Simpson's expressed desire to show all dissenters to the door reflects a troubling ignorance that gives real patriotism a bad name.
Mark Melamed
international studies junior
MLK's dream lives on at UA, society-at-large
Dave Heacock, UA Security officer, is correct when he states that the people of Arizona created the holiday to celebrate the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, a great cultural hero. Moreover, although I have been in Tucson for only one year, it is obvious that this city is not a community of racist "red necks."
During my year here, I have noticed significant racial and cultural diversity, both of which represent ideals for which Dr. Martin Luther King continuously worked and ultimately sacrificed his life. Dr. King had a vision wherein people of all races and cultures would stand together in unity in this great country. In order to achieve these lofty objectives, Dr. King was a man who steadfastly and actively worked to achieve racial and cultural harmony and dignity.
My personal experience in Arizona is antithetical to the "racist, red neck" society portrayed by Ms. Winsky. I look with pride upon the racial and ethnic diversity and unity that I perceive on this campus daily. Indeed, I believe that the UA has virtually a zero tolerance policy for any form of overt bigotry or discrimination and provides forums for the redress of any such intolerable behavior.
Dr. King would be proud of the national unity demonstrated by our great country since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11. Our diversity and national pride have brought us together in unity since these horrific attacks upon our freedom. People once again support our military and are acutely cognizant that freedom is purchased with a price. As a former military man, I am personally aware of many warriors who died in combat to preserve our freedom and diversity. It should also be noted that Dr. King paid the supreme sacrifice to further his love for this great country and to help us grow in diversity and unity.
We definitely need to celebrate the birthday of Dr. King and while vestiges of institutional racism may still exist, our country is gradually transcending this deplorable practice. Dr. King's magnanimous work and cultural influence is still pervasive in our society. Indeed, his dream still lives on.
Malcolm "Mac" Little
gerontology graduate student
