The University of Washington, in response to a proposal to erect a monument for decorated WWII Marine pilot Col. Gregory "Pappy" Boyington, decided that they didn't need "any more monuments to rich white men" and that they weren't too keen on the idea of putting up a monument that, you know, dealt with like, war and killing and stuff. Minutes of the meeting here: (http://senate.asuw.org/secretary/minutes/senate/12/02-07-2006.pdf))
Well, as it turns out the student senate (contact information here: http://www.asuw.org/directory.php) is having another senate meeting tonight, 2/14 at 5pm.
If you feel moved, drop them a line.
If you're alumni, feel free to tell them to go to hell.
Double that if you're a vet.
UPDATE:
This is the current response from the student council president, who I am sure, is getting deluged right now. I have to give the guy credit - it's a mature response in what must be a trying situation.
The blog news and the draft minutes that were posted are inaccurate. First, Ashley Miller's statements were highlighting, as a point of information, that the majority of our statues are white males, which was an issue previously addressed last year, this is not in any way meant to go against Colonel Boyington. It was noted by the sponsor, Andrew Everett, about Boyington's heritage later. Jill Edwards made here statements as an individual, and it should not be assumed she speaks for all students. Karl Smith wanted to honor his service as a whole (he risked his life, endured 20 months in a POW Camp) in an effort to bring more support from a number of students who do not morally agree with war. These statements are in public discourse that has been and will always be at the University of Washington to educate on the questions and issues of our society.Launched by Bravo Romeo Delta at February 14, 2006 06:35 PM | Missile TracksI would also like to remind you that as ASUW President I cosponsored this bill to create a memorial, it failed by one vote, and a good majority of those who voted against it wanted more inclusion of other alumni who were combat veterans who earned the Medal of Honor. This week a new resolution to that effect is being drafted and introduced. In the meantime the ASUW supports veterans in other ways, currently we are supporting state legislation that will hopefully pass and guarantee veterans tuition waivers. In the end, the buck stops here, I would appreciate further comments to be made to me. Please do not participate or condone the hate-filled comments and phone calls made toward individuals in our student government. It has been appalling to see what is being said to people. I too am nauseated.
Thank you for you statements.
Sincerely,
Lee Dunbar