Re-evaluating priorities
To the Editor:
On Friday morning, I gathered with several members of the African-American and Latino community at Penn to rally against the representations of minorities in the media, especially in cases of violence.
We held a peaceful protest with posters and signs in front of the Fox News cameras on College Green. President Rodin made an appearance on the show. When asked about our protest, she dismissed us, saying this is a college campus -- what can you expect.
I am enraged by President Rodin's remark. To add insult to injury, President Rodin passed through our protest line on her way to College Hall and did not inquire about our purpose. She brushed past my right arm without asking why I was in the cold holding a sign that says "RESET THE EXAMPLE." Her actions show that while her presidential term ends in June 2004, she has already begun to distance herself from Penn students. In that short instant I realized that maybe Penn does not take student action seriously.
We did not gather at 6 a.m. for sport. We did not create posters, T-shirts or assemble ourselves just because such actions go hand in hand with the stigma of being a college student. We gathered because we have an issue with how the media at large affects media in micro-communities like Penn. Fox News, as well as other national news channels, repeatedly fill their headlines with crime stories. They also emphasize when a person of color is involved.
Unfortunately, The Daily Pennsylvanian follows this example. I am frustrated by how the DP echoes the negative trend in corporate media rather than setting a higher standard in responsibly covering Penn news.
We -- Penn students, staff and affiliates -- read The Daily Pennsylvanian. This newspaper affects our mentality and attitudes toward one another. To print the photograph of a black Penn student when he was arraigned, not convicted of a crime, inflames the racial tension on campus. More importantly, it contributes to the spirit of fear within our student body. Suddenly, our fear over the "crime wave" pits us against both West Philadelphians and each other.
I challenge The Daily Pennsylvanian to re-evaluate its priorities. I challenge the editors and writers to remember their responsibilities to the Penn community. Think about how each story affects the individuals and communities involved. Aggressively seek underrepresented opinions. The Daily Pennsylvanian must not follow corporate media trends.
At the same time, I implore the student body to take more action. The issues I have raised pertain to all students, especially students of color. We must prove our concerns are no laughing matter. We must assert our voice!
Venise Battle College '04
