To the Editor:

I am writing in response to the In My View… column published on November 28 by Laurisha McClarin.

When trying to change the views of this nation, there is never any drastic change. Public opinion does not change rapidly. I look at the accomplishments of Carrie Chapman Catt as a step in the right direction, rather than a complete failure.

When entering a situation which has many possible outcomes, it is advisable to consider the goals to be obtained, and all possible outcomes and fallback positions. I could see the political climate as hostile toward a great amount of change, so Catt pursued a course of action that she thought had the highest chance of success. There is a saying that fits this strategy: Choose your battles wisely.

I have not studied history. I have never taken a history course in college. I am basing my opinion on the articles that I have read in reference to Catt and the statements made by others including by McClarin.

Another point of view is always helpful when looking at a complex situation. But the tone of this article and the failure to consider other alternatives has prompted my response.

There are two statements one paragraph apart that directly contradict each other: “Likewise, we should not remain ignorant of the fact that each of us has the power to fight oppression or to take on only the battles that serve our own interests,” and “Perhaps the 19th Amendment would not have passed in 1920, but we would have been able to truthfully say that she fought for women’s rights and not that she contributed to the oppression of women of color for the benefit of white women.” Catt had the power, and she fought her battle. Fact. Catt did not fight for all women. Fact. What is the point of the summary statements listed above?!? You have stated that it is up to individuals to take on the battles that they deem necessary, and yet you chastise Catt for not taking on another battle? Catt chose her battle and won. Because she did not take on another battle is not a reason to discount her accomplishments.

How different would America be if the 19th Amendment had not passed? There are two possible outcomes: Better or worse. It could be that the civil rights movement would have moved at a faster pace, and all women would have been able to vote with the passage of this amendment.

But it could have backfired and all women would have not have gained the right to vote. This would have pushed back the civil rights movement even further. Without the passing of suffrage, when all people regardless of color were granted the right to vote, women could have been excluded. Which alternative seems better?

Catt should be praised for her accomplishments. Granted, there is no historical figure that is free of controversy. There are always differing viewpoints to every issue. To disagree with anyone or any opinion is the right of every citizen of this country. To tell someone that their opinion is wrong implies that you have the power to decide right and wrong. Your opinion is correct to you, and Dean Hoffman’s opinion is correct to her. I personally respect your opinion, but I disagree with it.

So be it.

Edward Goff

ISU Alumni MS ’91, Ph.D.’95