LETTERS: The sources of racial tension

To the Editor: But if Liskey defines integration as forgetting one's sense of self to fit into mainstream white America, blacks have not integrated. Blacks are always seen by their color first, no matter what their origins or actions. Liskey also wrote that "the long journey toward clearing racial tensions from campus will never begin until separatist roadblocks like DuBois disappear from Penn." DuBois does not promote racial tension on campus. Racial tensions won't dissolve until all races understand where the others are coming from. For whites to understand blacks, they have to know about our experiences and history, for our history is a vital part of our culture. From elementary through high school, I was only taught about my own history during the month of February or while studying about slavery. DuBois fills in the gaps white American history left out. As Liskey recommended, taking an African American studies course can help. But people must realize that every experience a black person has, whether it includes whites or not, is a black experience, and it is a positive one. White people, too, must integrate by attending functions like African Rhythms performances and by making black friends. Perhaps Liskey should ask himself if he's integrated into the diverse Penn community. Victoria Moore College '99 u To the Editor: I am writing in response to Emeritus Professor Robert Rutman's Letter to the Editor (DP, 11/20/96). He stated that most whites are predjudiced and insinuated that all blacks face discrimination in Penn, "the great white citadel." What is he talking about? Rutman made it sound like Penn is a training ground for the Ku Klux Klan. To make such broad generalizations, he would have to be omnipresent. Many people at the University are not racist. Alhtough racial discrimination does exist, naive generalizations like Rutman's only serve to perpetuate the problem. Grow up! Steve Shaheen Engineering '99 On tangible change To the Editor: I want to express my dissatisfaction with the article "Coming soon: Penn parties at the Sheraton?" (DP, 11/19/96) and subsequent editorial ("Creating real change" DP, 11/20/96). No DP reporter ever attended the Tangible Change Committee's meeting. As a result, much of the article's information was incorrect. The committee discussed ideas like an "on-site bowling alley" and "appropriate holiday decorations." But these suggestions came directly from students. The committee is not looking to institute only "feel-good programs." We are working to extend the hours that Quad study lounges and Chats are open so students have a safe place to work or simply relax at night. Additionally, we are looking into opening a coffee house on or near campus, and opening up the Butcher-Speakman-Class of '28 lounge, which remains locked for no reason. The committee intends to pursue short-term, feasible changes that will provide the Penn community with a more positive atmosphere. While these individual changes may not "have lasting effects," as your editorial noted, they will have a collective impact. The committee gets funding from more than one University division, allowing it to create "tangible" and positive changes without draining an individual division's budget or being hindered by bureaucratic gridlock. In the future, please make a conscious effort to accurately report our committee's actions and do not form opinions until you have all the facts. Matthew Chait Committee for Tangible Change UA Member College '00

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