As an alumnus of ISU, I would like to call attention to an observation that has bothered me even while I was a student. ISU has made great efforts in the past two decades to address minority issues. However, all the programs that are titled “minority” or “multicultural” seem to all be oriented toward African-Americans.

Has anyone studied the resources allocated for minorities to see whether or not other ethnicities are receiving their proper shares of the resources?

I’m sure this will anger some African-American students, but let’s be totally open about this. If the resources are being dominated by black issues, then name those programs and directors accordingly; don’t make it sound like other minorities are being equally served.

Another thought for students to ponder: If ISU is to become a multicultural, integrated academic environment, why does it allow for such separatist practices as having a black student government?

Shouldn’t there be just one GSB for ALL ISU students? If not, why isn’t there an Asian GSB, Middle Eastern GSB, Female GSB? Are there seats on the GSB Senate that are specially allocated for other minorities?

Perhaps someone will correct me and tell me that all of these segregated practices have been abolished. Somehow, I really doubt it.

We minorities who really wish for a more ethnic-friendly environment know that preferential and separatist treatment will only divide the races even more.

Thomas Hsieh

Chicago, Ill.