Editor:

I am a senior (again) and am reminiscing on my many years of being at the University of Arizona. In this period, I cannot help but notice the recurring theme in the editorials of the Daily Wildcat. Barely a week has gone by when I have not seen an editorial having to do with the topic of discrimination. Most of these letters have either been an explanation or complaint from an individual or group being physically or verbally harassed. But not often enough is there a suggestion or strive to prevent further discrimination from occurring.

However, the headlined editorial, "Telephone threats show everyday racism," delivered a good point. In this letter from Feb. 27, Roberto Martinez states, "Just because it isn't reported to you through the Wildcat doesn't mean that it doesn't happen." Discrimination occurs daily.

Everyday racism is the most destructive form of discrimination. It is almost habitual. It is in our nature to act in the way which we are taught. Therefore, we find ourselves cutting down individuals or groups daily, for their alleged differences, for no apparent reason or motivation.

So what can we do to prevent this? Is it unrealistic to think that eventually there will no longer be ignorance on this campus? Is it too much to ask people to look before they leap and think before they speak? Maybe it is too much to ask. Obviously, change is not going to occur overnight, but gradual strides towards respect for others is possible and is our option.

As stated above, I am a senior. If I want to be a part of this step in the right direction at the UA, I have to act now. So here's a new acronym for everyone to ponder. ROCK: Reaching Out for Cultural Knowledge. The ROCK program I am implementing is an attempt to educate students on multiculturalism. If all goes as planned, ROCK will make its debut as a convention in April. It will be a weekend experience for individuals interested in learning and educating about different cultures. The conference will focus on issues concerning cultural diversity, religion, sexual orientation, gender issues and many other issues that are present on college campuses.

So now I am reaching out to you! Project ROCK is not something I can plan alone. All groups are important in this type of even and I hope to get as much input as possible on how this could benefit everyone. If you are interested in sharing ideas or even being part of the steering committee for the conference, please get in touch with me by phone (621-6635) or through e-mail (bierner@ccit.arizona.edu). Let's work together and take a step in the right direction.

Jonathan Bierner

ASUA undergraduate senate chair

psychology senior

Jonathan Bierner
ASUA undergraduate Senate Chair