Monday, June 1, 1998
Letters
Don’t mistake opinion for fact
I appreciate Eric Jacks’ recognizing the fact ("Poor tactics
obscure protesters’ message," May 28) that I worked hard at KLA
during my tenure there – worked hard to get the story and to keep
myself informed. However, I do remember very well Mr. Jacks’ work
in the news department; he never could take anything seriously. I
guess that’s why he’s a Viewpoint columnist now; apparently you
don’t need to research anything or keep yourself informed to write
your opinion. You aren’t held to rules on quoting someone, because
you misquoted me.
I was referring to Chancellor Carnesale’s inflexibility and
unresponsiveness to a student body that will not remain passive on
an issue that so gravely impacts this university and this state. I
was referring to the Affirmative Action Coalition demands, not
"multiculturalism." I never said multiculturalism, nor did I want
to; were you really listening at all? I would have welcomed any
questions or discussion on the action, as I did all day long from
several students who were in class in Royce and students passing
by.
But Mr. Jacks did not speak to me. Obviously, you do not
understand why this issue is being likened to the civil rights
movement. But the question is, do you care to find out? I think
it’s better if you stick to things that do not require your quoting
or reporting stories; your strength is apparently in your comedy. I
hope no one confuses it for informed opinion.
Liz Geyer
External vice president-elect
Columnist finds the right words
Thank you so much for printing Neven Jeremic’s article ("Higher
education is a privilege, not an absolute right") in the May 27
issue of the Daily Bruin. I read The Bruin religiously every day,
and his column was by far the best article I have come across this
entire year. For the past five years, I have been trying to express
in words my stance on affirmative action, but there is no longer a
need for me to suffer. Jeremic has published the article I have
always wanted to write, but couldn’t find the way to say how I
feel. I’d like to see if any Affirmative Action Coalition
supporters can respond effectively, because everything Jeremic
writes seems difficult to argue with.
Jimmy Chatsuthiphan
Fourth-year
Geology