To the Editor:
In an Oct. 15 column in The Dartmouth, Chris Curran wrote, "I imagine some left-leaning extremists might fly the hammer and sickle of the former Soviet Union. Perhaps some right-wing extremists might hang the Confederate flag. Both flags are symbols of oppression and might be offensive to some members of the community."
I find these remarks offensive. First of all, to stereotype leftists as socialists, and conservatives as racist, is a gross exaggeration. Also, Mr. Curran seems to leave out a counter argument, wherein many could assume that flying an American flag could be, itself, a symbol of oppression around the world. I am sure that the Star Spangled Banner is no symbol of freedom and patriotism to Osama bin Laden. To him and other peoples around the world, who to this day, foster hatred of our country, our flag represents an oppressive regime far greater than any previous empire.
Mr. Curran seems locked into an aggressive mindset, which, although I agree with his patriotism, is dangerous to freedom and tolerance.
