To the Editor:

I am an alum (’79 BA Pol Sci), who just found the Daily on line —this is great.

I was very interested in the article concerning the re-naming of Old Botany to Catt Hall.

It’s important to note that Ms. Catt fought for the rights of some women, while supporting the oppression of other women.

It’s also sad that the legacy of her bigotry is still dividing women. I don’t know of any current recognized feminist leaders who would condone Ms. Catt’s bigotry.

Ms. Catt would have been a much more successful feminist, and much more representative of the feminist movement and goals (even the movement and goals of her day), had she not been such a bigot.

I think that in addition to the traditional plaques noting her achievements, etc., there should be additional plaques or space noting her prejudices and willingness to oppress others.

Perhaps there could be an analysis or essay by some ISU feminists commenting on this, and how much more effective Ms. Catt would have been, had she not been so misdirected.

Perhaps there could also be a statement on how bigotry hurts everyone, and how important it has been for feminists to learn from Ms. Catt’s mistakes, and to move forward in a more unified and stronger effort.

Like a gallery area, where people would have room and chairs to read, and perhaps sit and reflect on these issues.

Maybe there might be a place where people could write or present their personal comments as well.

Race and class are always issues which confront feminists.

They are also issues which cannot be resolved by feminists alone, or in a vacuum.

The feminist movement has grown, and will continue to grow in understanding and sensitivity about race,class and other issues.

All women, and the feminist movement itself will be stronger as a result of these sometimes hard and painful lessons.

I know I am always growing around these and other issues. And thank goodness for that!

It’s hard sometimes but well worth the effort.

Thank you for considering my views.

Sheri (Sharron) Clemons

ISU ’79 Political Science

New York, NY