<p>Let me begin by saying what a pleasure it is to converse with so many interesting people. I find the level of discourse on CC especially in the lac threads thought provoking and respectful. I thank janderwicki and richen for their wise replies. As a lawyer of 33 years I found both of your comments made alot of sense.</p>
<p>However when janderwicki noted that “… many times Haverford is cast as a utopian paradise…” lends itself to my point that this "casting " is the result of HC’s literature to prospective students as well as the the web site for the college and what the tour guides tell families on the campus tour. It is the repitition of the small community governing its own behavior in a spirit of consensous and openmindedness that is indeed an overt marketing tool. Richen as a trained attorney you know we sell our ideas in legal briefs and closing and opening statements. The college web page, the campus tour and the view book are every colleges’ opening statement. A means of distinguishing itself from its competitors. HC’s opening statement is the Honor Code, and its values of inclusiveness. This is how I have interpreted the school’s message. If I am incorrect so be it but that is how the school’s literature entered my mind.</p>
<p>I agree that colleges reflect society. But it is unfortunate that the HC students had to take to an editorial page to air their sadness rather than to reach out to their fellow students who are supposed to be intellectual elites of liberal leanings to express their concerns and gain understanding and inclusion.</p>
<p>I do think that the follow up campus meetings and message board posting are positive steps forward. </p>
<p>Richen you note that you don’t blame Haverford but rather American society. However was the administration unaware of the problem? Also ask yourself what was wrong with the African American students’ advisers and the various Deans that these citizens of HC did not feel comfortable enough to unburden themselves of their sense of isolation and the school’s lack of diversity inclusion in their school community?</p>
<p>When you have a tiny school like HC there are very few places to turn to to seek solace or friendship if you are an underepresented minority that believes nobody wants you there.</p>
<p>All that being said I do laud the white students for reaching out and I hope things change if my kid goes to school there.Again thank both of you for your wise responses.</p>
<p>Dana’s Dad</p>