I just want to point out to Mr. Ruben Salinas Stern of the Latino Center that the stereotyping of Puerto Ricans in West Side Story is intentional by the writers ("West Side Story stereotypes Puerto Ricans," 4/12). Their motive is to demonstrate how ridiculous stereotypes are and to eliminate them. West Side Story is one of the most progressive and socially conscious musicals of our time. A thousand word Viewpoint in the Daily heavily criticizing the depiction of Puerto Ricans is rather unfortunate and demonstrates that you simply do not grasp the play's message.
Joseph Palazzo, LA '01
