To the Editor:
I'm writing in response to The Dartmouth Editorial Board's criticisms of the Student Assembly ["Less Talk, More Action," The Dartmouth, Feb. 18]. First of all, I think the column was extremely harsh and in no way constructive. I'm not sure if the editors of The Dartmouth are aware of how much work the members of the Student Assembly do for the rest of us. Having some limited experience with student government at Dartmouth, I know some members on the Assembly. They put in as much time and effort as anyone on your newspaper, and regardless of whether or not you are pleased with the results of their work, you should respect their efforts. As for rhetoric and posturing, I am sure it does exist in the Student Assembly, and I am sure some members are more concerned with politics than working for the students.
I think it is ironic, though, that The Dartmouth is accusing another student group of being too political. Sometimes I feel that your paper falls prey to the same evil. I think next time The Dartmouth's Editorial Board wishes to criticize another student group, they should do a little self-evaluation first. Is the staff of The D really concerned with being responsible journalists? I am sure there are many who care just as much about seeing their names in print and padding their resumes as bringing the news to their fellow students.
While there may be problems with the Student Assembly, I think there are more positive and constructive means of addressing them. Go to a meeting and share your ideas for "concrete actions" instead of just complaining in a newspaper column. And remember, we are the ones who elected the members of the Student Assembly. If you are so displeased with the job they are doing, put your money where your mouth is and run for a position on the Assembly this spring.
