Letters to the Editor

Student-athletes show spirit of 'U'

To the Daily:

I have many times found myself at odds with those who voice their opinions to the University community by means such as this, but never to the extent that I felt it necessary to respond in such a manner as this. I must say that upon reading Paul Ocobock's March 10th letter "Athletes aren't sole representatives of University," I was more than dismayed to note the utter disdain and disregard for University student-athletes.

I am sure that had Ocobock ever really considered what a student-athlete brings, sacrifices and makes the University, he certainly would retract his previous column and furthermore, he would wholeheartedly apologize to the community that he so vehemently lashed out against. As a community, these fine men and women represent the University, and ultimately Ocobock, with their heart and soul. They do this out of a profound respect and reverence for this institution and for those who attend it. They choose to not only speak of a love for Michigan, rather they choose as Nick Delgado rightly stated "to embody it." Athletes are in Delgado's words "the heart of Michigan." They do in fact have a passion and "feel the spirit of Michigan." If you cannot see this, then I am sorry. But next time you choose to reprimand us, please take the time out of your day to really learn who we are, what we are, and what we choose to sacrifice so that we might rightly and properly represent you and this fine University.

G. J. Zann

LSA Junior

SCC insulted students in Union

To the Daily:

As I walked down the front steps of the Michigan Union yesterday, I was approached by a large group protesters from the Students of Color Coalition. The protesters shouted at me, referring to me as "ignorant," a "moron" and a "supporter of institutionalized racism."

In reality, all I was doing was walking down a flight of stairs that I use on a daily basis. I am not sure as to how that can be equated with making a political statement against the SCC. I was deeply offended and embarrassed by these unprovoked insults and shameful name-calling tactics.

Like most Americans, I support the right to peaceably assemble. This is a guaranteed privilege that falls under the First Amendment. But the SCC has abused this privilege by engaging in a pattern of hostility and aggression that is detrimental to the entire community. Perhaps the SCC would gain more respect from the campus and the surrounding community by using more rational and appropriate protest tactics. The First Amendment protects the right to peaceably assemble, but it does not protect speech that is slanderous in nature. The SCC has violated this important guideline by making unfounded and insulting statements regarding visitors of the Union. As a result the SCC is promoting hatred instead of equality.

Ari Faneuil

LSA Junior