Editor:
I was fascinated by the letter from Jane Schmitt ("Past errors prove we must respect culture," Oct. 17). After likening the building of three structures on Mt. Graham to the colonization of two entire continents, she proceeds to claim that she has only the best interests of Native Americans at heart when she calls for an end to the construction of the final telescope. Her letter concludes by invoking the name of a terrorist organization that espouses violence to meet its goals.
I have no doubts that Ms. Schmitt neither knew nor cared about Native American issues prior to the Mt. Graham controversy. Those who oppose the telescopes do so not because of concern for the environment or minorities, but because they fear technology which they cannot understand. They are merely pretending to care for any and every cause which can further their political agenda. I wouldn't be surprised if many Native Americans were offended by the condescension of these fair-weather friends.
There is a real tragedy occurring in this situation, and it has nothing to do with telescopes. The Vatican telescope and the SMT aren't going anywhere, and I am convinced that the LBT will eventually be built. The tragedy lies in what will most likely happen to this nation's environmental protection laws as a result of abuse by groups like SEAC. They are providing ample ammunition for the repeal of these important laws every time they misuse them to further their political goals. I doubt that people like Ms. Schmitt will be honest with themselves about their responsibility for this tragedy when it comes to pass, though; honesty has never been their strong suit.
J. Sean Keane
Electrical and Computer Engineering Graduate Student