LETTERS: Disappointed in Asian coverage

To the Editor: On Friday, March 21, 1997, the student and faculty community experienced the inauguration of the Asian American Studies program at the University of Pennsylvania. Over 140 supporters were present to celebrate a program that took seven hard years to create. This is not only a momentous occasion for the University academically, but also a more personal victory for Asian and Asian American students at Penn in terms of identity and affirmation. The DP has done a great injustice to both the Asian American Studies and Ethnic Studies movements currently sweeping this nation. This failure to include a story only continues a long history of poor DP coverage of Asian American events on campus. The less than adequate coverage of Asian Pacific American Heritage Week and invisibility of the minority beat reporter in our community communicate a strong, negative message to Asian Americans and their interests. If the DP finds it more worthwhile to publish articles concerning the InterFraternity Council and alcohol and campus crime, two issues greatly overdone, instead of the creation of a new and instrumental academic program at the University, then things must be changed. And if you won't do it, then we will. We understand the logistical difficulties that go into producing a publication, and if you didn't know, then please make an effort to know. The DP possesses great responsibility in reporting the news of this campus. I urge you to take care in the future with what you choose is important and not important, because if not, then the problems and issues that hold this society back will be perpetuated. Eric T. Lee Asian Pacific Student Coalition Chairperson Wharton '98 u To the Editor: I am writing to express my concern about the lack of attention the DP showed toward the symposium and the new Asian American Studies minor. Many students have worked hard to make this happen and I think it is important the DP should recognize this achievement. This affects many people here in the University community and it is the DP's responsibility to educate and promote something like this. I hope in the future, the DP will better serve the needs of the Asian American community. Thuhuong Vu College '00 u To the Editor: This past Friday was the inauguration of the Asian American Studies minor. It was a very momentous event for the Asian community with an impressive attendance showing support for the program. I was very disappointed to not find an article in the DP covering this symposium. The DP has shown little interest in informing the university of Asian issues and events which is a shame because there is a lot going on that the university community should know about. I would like to ask the DP to include more Asian coverage in your future editions. Lam Nguyen College '00