It is very appalling to read such editorial of the September 15th issue of The Spectrum. First of all, [Stephen Marth's] argument was inconclusive and the congruency between the double standard of the word [N-word] and the diverse groups represented at SA as a form of racism unfounded. Your cultural ignorance abhorrent and some cultural anthropology courses would not be a bad investment if you intend to integrate our current, multicultural world. Even in the sport world.
???Human race has never, and will never be, completely homogeneous nor uniform. Uniqueness is a trait that has helped species preserve and ensure the continuity of itself; thus it should be embraced. As a former student of UB, I found in the diverse groups of SA a family and peers towards promoting change, while at the same time learning how our differences - in the end - are smaller than our underlying similarities.
???To become a member you do not need to be part of that culture or concept, only interest and willingness to give back to the community. A great example of this is FASA, the Filipino American SA, which members come from all different walks of life and ethnic/cultural clubs, and it is one of the most vibrant and active groups on SA. African SA and LASA consist of a juxtaposition of various countries with various customs, and that sometimes in the real world strife with each other. However, it helps the UB Black/African and Latin community and other members to bring civil action, understanding and a forum to discuss issues of interest. Even more drastic, MESA - Middle Eastern SA - brings Arab, Muslim, Jewish, Middle Eastern and anyone interested together to discuss real life issues and create an environment where these groups can be friends and learn from each other's point of view.
???The need to create student groups whether lifestyle or cultural/ethnic/linguistic related is that there is not a degree of diversity in our campus, and even in Buffalo as such as New York or San Diego, for example. It helps to continue a link with our communities at home and create new ones here, which highly enriches our college experience. Everyone can join, and in all the meetings and events that I have been to in the various SA groups that I had belong to, I have NEVER encountered racism. There has been disagreements, contradicting point of views and even flared arguments yet it has helped us as students and future global citizens to RESPECT everyone, no matter their ideology or background. Therefore, the diverse groups in SA are an asset to the college community, and should not be categorized racist. You should attend to some group meetings yourself, and be involved in some the activities to understand what it is and what stands for: embrace your uniqueness yet not using it as a shield towards others... [Editorial edited for length]
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Most Attentively,
Anya Gonz?Ae?lez
UB alumnae
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
