To the Editor:
While I understand Eitan Hersh's criticisms of SLAM ("SLAM's tactics too militant," 10/18), I fear he has misinterpreted the group's efforts. As a member of SLAM (and the much-ridiculed subject of recent Viewpoints), I do not deny being passionate about labor issues. If Mr. Hersh wants to characterize me as an "irrational radical" then so be it. In a nation where 90 percent of the population supports a war of vengeance, who determines rationality? He goes on to say, "The general population does not want to be associated with something 'radical.' The leaders of SLAM, however, don't understand this. They don't understand how to sell their product."
He's right. I don't understand why "radical" is such a bad word. Doesn't anybody recall the context in which the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles use the word? It's always good. The word "radical" has developed negative connotations that it doesn't deserve. Eitan: don't be afraid of associating yourselves with what you believe to be a noble cause just because it is deemed radical.
And please don't assume that, as a SLAM member, I'm trying to sell a product. I'm no capitalist. Justice isn't something that can be bought and sold. All of my efforts related to SLAM have been attempts to educate and empower the community. I'm sorry that Mr. Hersh is choosing to stand idly by and watch us take action even when he agrees that the University and OneSource exploit our custodians. Eitan, why not come to a meeting and suggest a change in tactics? Don't let minor disagreements like those you mentioned make you one more apathetic student on this campus. We already have thousands of those.
Emily Good
LA '04
