Ignorance and racism

Ignorance and racism

To the Editor: Reading Brian Cope's column in response to Vinay Harpalani ("Hypersensitivity alert," The Daily Pennsylvanian, 9/25/00), elicited more than just irritation or concern. Out of utter shock, I was forced to check whether the April Fool's edition had been published early. In a university that prides itself on cultural and racial diversity, this type of opinion seems unimaginable. The column put to light the sad realities of ignorance and downright racism that unfortunately continue to persist in this campus. What Cope defines as hypersensitivity is exactly what the South Asian community, which represents nearly 10 percent of the Penn undergraduate population, has been silent about for much too long. Desecration of a religious figure is hardly a "trifle." The fact that some sports forecasters are not even aware of which culture they are humiliating demonstrates the ignorance that plagues this university. To incorporate the magic carpet of the Middle East with the turban of Northern India is like combining the customs of Judaism and Christianity. Come on, at least know what part of the planet you are belittling. Inexposure can no longer serve as a legitimate excuse. I realize that Cope, a white male from Tennessee, is a member of the majority. He has probably never been forced to defend his beliefs or explain his heritage. But living under the assumption that different cultures do not deserve respect unless they are accessible to mainstream America is very dangerous and very racist.

Manisi Parekh College '02

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