When did we start allowing such ignorance to fill the pages of our campus newspaper? Not only was the "Affirmative action hurts UB" letter (April 25), written by our own Andrew Tarnowski, offensive - it was laughable. Maybe no one has let you in on this, but until oppression and discrimination are no longer at the forefront of our community, affirmative action will never be outdated.
You know it's ironic, that in your own anti-affirmative action letter, you've actually proven the point held by many of us in support of this policy.
"I have been lucky ... I have only had to deal with two people who are not native English speakers," Tarnowski wrote. You've been lucky? What makes you any more entitled to be here than anyone else on this campus? I've got some news for you, the United States does not have an official language - therefore we cannot force people to fluently learn English. Every single document created in the United States government is printed in Spanish as well as English.
F.Y.I., affirmative action does not allow an inferior candidate more opportunities solely because they are a minority. It simply levels the playing field so that all may be able to compete at the same level. So when you get passed up for a position, and it's given to a poor black woman, don't blame that on affirmative action, blame that on yourself. Because with all of those obstacles she has had to face - she still did just as good as you (you and all of your privileges). That's why she deserves it more!
Another thing, there is no such thing as racism turned backwards. You don't want to be blamed and punished for the sins of your ancestors, but you have absolutely no problem reaping the benefits of those very same sins; the majority of your family's wealth is undoubtedly due to 400 years of unpaid labor. You give up your wealth resulting from my ancestors' sweat and blood, and I'll be anti-affirmative action - deal?
Before you get the guts to stand up and make comments on something, know something about it: it makes you look less ignorant, and saves others the time of having to educate you.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
