The Spectrum's editorial last Wednesday criticized the donations from the United States to the tsunami relief effort, saying that since the United States has the economic means it should extend more aid ("Bush's tepid tsunami response," Jan. 26). That troubled me because of the hypocrisy displayed by that comment. Those same people are the ones who are against the current war in Iraq. The United States also has the overwhelming military power, along with its allies, to do another honorable thing, but the many people who chastise the Bush Administration for not giving enough cash also chastise him for using the United States military to right another wrong. So it is okay to use the United States' resources to help people when it is as convenient as writing a check, but not right when it requires some blood, sweat and tears? The left never ceases to amaze me. They once again want to help only when it is easy, and the moment it gets tough, they run away from the issue claiming "it is none of our business."
Then Friday's issue of The Spectrum had yet another hypocrisy. The Spectrum writes that UB needs to make a stand against sweatshops. As honorable as this sentiment is, I find it incredible that they make such a statement when only a few days ago the Student Union hosted a Nike Shoe Bonanza, giving great deals on a brand name, built on sweatshop labor. They make a stand on sweatshops only days after our own organization promotes cheap prices on sneakers off of sweat labor. Had to make sure to get cheap deals on sneakers before having an attack of conscience?
