To the Editor:
I am writing this in response to the article written by Leah Threatte '01, that appeared on Wednesday, February 28, 2001: The auction about which Ms. Threatte has complained was a community-service activity to raise funds for Upper Valley charities, as she herself states.
From the sounds of it, this event had nothing to do with the issue of slavery or race, except insofar as it was called an "auction."
While I agree with Ms. Threatte that slavery was a terrible chapter in American history, I fail to see the connection she is making between a community service event intended to benefit the poor with the African slave trade. Again, except insofar as it was called an "auction."
While I respect Ms. Threatte's right to state her opinion, I am saddened to read such inflammatory editorials in my alma mater's most popular publication. I am discouraged by the lack of forethought I've recently seen displayed by some Dartmouth students who would prefer to get attention rather than initiate constructive discussions.
