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Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026
The Daily Pennsylvanian

LETTERS: Friday, February 11, 2000

Look closer to home Look closer to homeTo the Editor: It is no secret that some of the most privileged children in America attend Penn. Similarly, it is also no secret that the wealth of Penn is in great contrast to the tremendous poverty which characterizes portions of Philadelphia. Who are we to preach about human rights abuses and fair labor practices which occur in foriegn countries when the most egregious human rights abuse, poverty, still flourishes in Penn's own backyard? While those students who are currently protesting the use of sweatshop labor certainly have their hearts in the right place, I believe that they have focused their attention too far from home. When America is cured of its ills, perhaps then should we focus our attention on the problems abroad. However, anyone who has ventured past 46th Street or witnessed the homelessness which often times trickles into Penn can testify that the day when America is truly ill-free is a long way off. Erik Johnson College '02