Questioning Ethnic Studies

* As John H. Bunzel stated in “Are Ethnic Studies Separate or Equal?” (Opinion, Nov. 8), I agree that ethnic studies, if presented in a highly intellectual and apolitical arena, have a legitimate academic and societal role. However, as a UCLA graduate who has completed a handful of such courses, I am tempted to ask whether “ethnic studies” is merely a euphemism for state-sponsored indoctrination. From my experiences, there existed a clear political agenda--one that presented biased commentary in the midst of factual information. Professors and students branded as racially insensitive those questioning the prevailing views. I felt pressured to conform rather than to question or critique.

This is unfortunate, because ethnic studies have a vital role to play at all universities. As Bunzel correctly stated, minorities often celebrate their heritage while honoring their role as Americans. If presented apolitically, ethnic studies programs would better fulfill their purpose as an inclusive and truth-seeking endeavor.

ERIC LEUNG

Covina

*

Re “Why Do We Need Ethnic Studies?” Voices, Nov. 7: I am predominantly Hispanic. I am offended whenever members of minority groups feel that they have to promote their own group. I thought we were all Americans. The only “Chicano studies” I ever encountered was during that portion of U.S. history that pertained to the settling of California and the Southwest. I never felt cheated or left out.

This whole matter of Chicano studies or black studies smacks of victimization, exclusion and, most likely, the rewriting of history. I lived for several years in the Pacific Northwest, where there is a significant Scandinavian population. I was never aware of any “Scandinavian studies,” and no one of Scandinavian extraction ever complained. I would like to add that when I was old enough to realize that I was a citizen of the greatest nation in the world, nothing else mattered.

MICHAEL HERRERA

Inglewood