Unhumorous Association\nThe comic strip by Michael Teague entitled "Blender Kitty" (June 19, shown at right) provoked a series of emotions from members of various Latinos organizations on and off campus. We are writing collectively to voice our disgust over the insulting message found in that particular comic strip. \nWe could not find the humor that Mr. Teague was trying to convey. We failed to understand the association of clichés with his commentary regarding people who are seeking a better life to the point where they risk their lives -- a journey that is literally "life or death" for many hard working people who provide us with a high standard of living. Mr. Teague belittles the treacherous dangers that people willingly place themselves in order to seek the American dream that other immigrants have also achieved.\nMr. Teague dehumanizes immigrants to be at the same level as dogs, clowns or even invertebrates such as clams. It is another example of ignorance and insensitivity that still exists in this country. In closing, we are most disappointed with the IDS in that its staff still has not learned the lesson of cultural sensitivity toward all human beings in our country. Where is the humor?
Celibacy argument flawed\nVincent Carr's argument against celibacy for Roman Catholic priests is flawed ("Vatican cowardly on celibacy issue," June 16). He states the hypothetical case of a priest who falls in love and is thus faced with the choice between "depression and frustration" or leaving the priesthood to marry. This might be heart-rending, but it's not an argument. The priest himself voluntarily entered into this arrangement. A married man might suddenly find himself in love with someone more nubile than his wife; one can say he is faced with a choice between "depression and frustration" and leaving his wife. Or he can accept responsibility for his situation and move on, a skill that makes for more happiness than attempting to chase after one's every sexual whim. \nThe celibate priesthood is not only an example of commitment and responsibility; it is a living counter-cultural sign that sex is not the central focus of life -- an important message in a sex-obsessed society.
Parking woes and inquiries \nI am writing to stir the IDS staff to find out what the parking situation will be when the new building behind the geology building is built on the site of a current large parking lot. Where will IU stop taking up valuable parking spaces on this campus? Will they provide "new" spaces or will they decrease the amount of parking stickers they give out in order to allow those with stickers a chance to find a parking spot on campus? Will they allow more spaces downtown? Will they build onto the Jordan Garage in the future to provide more space? Will they create more "C" spots that are ONLY "C" and not for "A" as well. It is a problem whenthose with "A" stickers park in the "C" spots and then there are no "C" spots for those sticker holders. I challenge your staff to get us students some answers before there are no parking spots left. I fully agree with adding these two buildings to further the great education that IU offers, but if they are going to keep giving $35 parking tickets, then something needs to be done.
