Readers React: Missouri protesters are student activists, not ‘radicals’

To the editor: I take exception to the characterization of the University of Missouri as a “caldron of black radicalism.” (“Protesters celebrate after top University of Missouri leaders resign over racial turmoil,” Nov. 9)

Student activism has been woven into the fabric of positive change in this country, starting in the 1930s with the American Youth Congress, which lobbied Congress against war and racial discrimination. In the 1960s and ‘70s, the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee fought against racism and for the integration of public schools.

The African American protesters at the University of Missouri were joined by white students and faculty members and, of course, the entire football team. The protests were peaceful, effective and indeed resulted in positive change, and they deserve to be described as such.

Freddi King, Los Angeles

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