Letters to the Editor

The homogeneity of a true melting pot

While in her article ("Embracing our similarities," July 16) Melissa Parker seems to advocate a color-blind, class-blind perspective that philosophically attempts to unify diverse peoples, in reality, it marginalizes, downgrades and denies those differences that have real ramifications on minorities' lives. Parker's request: "Don't allow yourself to be defined by the color of your skin or the paycheck your parents bring home," implies that those who suffer discrimination are merely holding themselves back, responsible for and consenting to their own oppression. Persons usually do not have a choice whether they are judged by their skin, or whether others will impose discriminative actions and legislation based upon those judgments.

Cultural clubs encourage pride and identity that may have been stripped from the individual, as dominant culture and ideology are foregrounded (sic) in the media, classroom and workplace in America. These groups strive to unify, empower and give voice to peoples who have been misrepresented, underrepresented or not represented at all. It is the alliance of underrepresented individuals, the acknowledgement of our ethnic and economic differences, that has led to events such as the civil-rights movement, actions that have changed public policy and helped to further social equality. It is probably as a result of all the "women's power" and "struggle-as-women" activity that has made Parker's scholarship possible.

Parker's emphasis on similarities sounds like a push for assimilation into dominant white culture, a homogenous population where we are "all the same." Who will be altered, who will be absorbed and who will be lost in the melting pot?

Cynthia Brothers

senior, business, psychology, American ethnic studies

Religious redundancy

This is in response to Brian Turner's op-ed ("Religion should be fun," July 16), which made interesting reading and struck a chord. He is definitely on to something.

But, in this century, it is very hard to be original. Almost anything that one comes up with has already been thought about or articulated in some shape or form. And so it turns out to be the case in this instance.

An interesting take on the issue by guru and humanitarian Sri Sri Ravishankar (not the musician) is in a small book called God Loves Fun, published about seven years ago.

Sriram Natarajan, research associate,

Department of Psychology

Beating organic bankruptcy

Re: "Going bankrupt, pesticide-free" July 9. It is certainly the case that many retailers are treating organic products as if they were exotic, high-margin items. You do have choices, though. First, buy in season. Apples are just now coming into season. They are really expensive right now. But apricots aren't. Second, buy direct from farmers. The Saturday Farmers Market in the U-District is awesome. There are farmers markets in nearly every neighborhood now. Shop there and save, even compared to non-organic in many cases, because you'll be buying in season and buying direct. Third, PCC is not the only option. Madison Market (16th and Pine on Capitol Hill) takes seriously the responsibility of providing good food to all income classes. Trader Joe's is also increasing its lower-cost organic options. Finally, staying on budget with organics only works if you cook your own -- your own rice, your own beans, your own tofu and your own vegetables. So there's a time budget involved as well. Good luck with your commitment to health for yourself and the planet.

Kate Dunsmore

associate director, Regional Gifts/International, Office of Development and Alumni Relations