Dreadlocks

* While my heart goes out to Michelle Barskile, she must take responsibility for her choice to wear dreadlocks, a hairstyle that is very misunderstood in our society (Nov. 20).

I have grown dreadlocks for almost 13 years and have come to the conclusion that dreadlocks are not a hairstyle, but rather a way of life. Hostility and prejudice come with the decision to wear dreads. For those who might be thinking about growing dreads, do not choose to wear dreads and then complain that society treats you differently.

While I commend Barskile for standing up and speaking out against Alpha Kappa Alpha, we must not fault AKA for its shortsighted decision to withdraw her invitation to the ball. Sororities and fraternities stand for tradition and the status quo.

CLARENCE-JON HEISLER

Santa Monica

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* I feel that the controversy surrounding Barskile’s inability to participate in the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority debutante ball has been overly politicized and misinterpreted. The decision of the North Carolina chapter has nothing to do with cultural politics or the embracing of European beauty standards. The decision is about a hairstyle requirement the young lady knew about in advance.

It is unfortunate that Barskile as well as others are portraying her as a victim of some supposed black bourgeois establishment that is intolerant of Afrocentricity.

MARLA BLEAVINS

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.

Alpha Gamma Omega Chapter

Los Angeles