Cartoon propagates degradation of students

I am writing in regards to the N.C. State versus Florida State University cartoon that ran in Technician Friday. I was taken aback at the image and the subliminal messages it potentially conjures within the campus community. The American Indian population is often times overlooked institutionally; it becomes a silent population whose value and contribution to campus is ignored. The end result yields a population that is often times segregated, isolated and left to feel ostracized. The cartoon that was published in Friday’s paper further expounds upon those feelings.

It would seem to me that NCSU would be a more progressive, responsive and inclusive campus that centers on a positive climate for its community. Suggestive imagery, symbols and stereotypes negate value and the importance of groups, thus inhibiting progress. Shouldn’t Technician be a vehicle of knowledge and a medium where we educate our community on issues, programs and events pertinent to the educational development of its community?

Publication of such imagery propagates the continual degradation of groups and prohibits the University from fulfilling its mission to all students. The image was inappropriate and insensitive to the American Indian population and the long struggle it has been battling for centuries in this, its native country.

Maybe others feel this issue is irrelevant. But, as an American Indian who works constantly to educate others about psychological implications of imagery, conversion of words and gestures that elicit discriminatory undertones, I was offended and this issue is significant to me.

Brett Locklear

director, graduate recruiting

Become educated during Native American heritage month

The Wolfpack versus Seminoles cartoon in Technician Friday provides an opportunity to reflect and discuss on the power of symbols. Is the cartoon a harmless depiction of a school mascot or does it reinforce a pervasive stereotype?

Symbols and stereotypes have stunning power to elicit emotional responses. International incidents have erupted over cartoons; atrocities have been fueled by caricatures of religious or ethnic groups.

We strive to create an inclusive and respectful climate at N.C. State. Maintaining this kind of climate requires awareness and understanding of the history behind the symbols and stereotypes and an understanding of why some symbols might be hurtful, infuriating or generally unwelcome. Understanding more about each other is a necessary first step. Become educated — November is Native American Heritage Month. A slate of films, discussions, art exhibits and cultural events are planned at the University. Take advantage of these opportunities; talk with fellow students and faculty about the issues of stereotypes and symbols; move NCSU toward our goal of an inclusive and welcoming environment.

Marcia Gumpertz

assistant vice provost for faculty and staff diversity

Preacher is nothing new

Tom Short preaching in the Brickyard is no different than any other closed-minded religious zealot trying to push their beliefs on anyone they can. I love religion with a passion, not just any specific one. All belief systems bring a message to humanity that we can learn from. No one message is completely right, but each adds to our collective insight. I’m an atheist but I still respect the good that comes from a structured belief system. Mr. Short does not represent the greater good with his message. If it is not “the word of Christ,” then he simply won’t accept it. His argument does not bring anyone closer to a personal relationship with a higher power, but simply goes against anything higher education stands for. Go ahead, question him on anything concerning science, history, religion (other than a strict brand of Christianity) or any other scholarly discipline and his replies are so uneducated, so diluted and so narrow-minded that if we as students gave these types of answers in class, our professors would cringe. Everyone should have the right to free speech, and Mr. Short certainly has that right. However, this man constantly puts down students, their studies, their belief systems and even our University in a condescending manner with his ignorance filled rhetoric. I respect Technician and am a faithful reader, but please do not be fooled by its portrayal of this man. He may not say “You’re going straight to hell,” but he will definitely let you know you’re well on your way if you don’t subscribe to his fanatical ideology.

Jonathan Mucci

senior, history