Speaking out

Letter to the EditorSpeaking out

Editor:

Regarding the insert, "UCLA Speaks Out" printed Oct. 4, I wanted to make

the following comments about the inclusion of my quote and paragraph.

First, my full quote was, "I'm glad to know everyone stayed cool about

it. I mean, it seems that everyone dealt with it more constructively than,

say, the trials here two years ago."

By this, I meant that the exposure and discussion issues such as

domestic violence, prejudice in the LAPD and what it takes to get a quality

legal defense helped to raise people's awareness. Specifically, the forming

and speaking out of groups to these issues is a much better reaction, I

think, than the violence and frustration seen before.

Also, I feel that my photograph shown next to the truncated version of

my quote presented an attitude of sarcasm and, perhaps, even racism that I

want to speak about. The picture captured my response to being asked about

the O.J. trial, which is why I smirked, since it seemed that everyone was

getting asked. However, my feelings about other people's responses to the

verdict were somber, not cynical.

As far as my opinion goes, I have reasons to sympathize with many of the

opinions expressed on both sides about what the trial meant, but that is

something I haven't completely resolved for myself yet. Still, I wanted to

try and address any frustration, apathy or anger my perceived attitude may

have added to during this emotional time.Jeremiah Wintringer

Fourth-year

Philosophy/pre-women's studies

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