Letters to the Editor 2, 9/25/08

Dear Editor, ‘ ‘ ‘ This letter is in response to the Sept. 22 interview with Mo Rocca, ‘Rocca… Dear Editor, ‘ ‘ ‘ This letter is in response to the Sept. 22 interview with Mo Rocca, ‘Rocca talks politics in Pitt Union.’ Mo Rocca commented, ‘There are going to be a lot of people that lie, saying they’re voting for the black guy and don’t.’ His comment expresses an outdated view of society and pigeonholes the candidates and voters as racially biased. To define Sen. Barack Obama merely by the color of his skin is an oversimplification of a candidate who not only revolutionizes the idea of the American dream but also inspires hope in all Americans about the possibility of change for the future of our country. Comments like Rocca’s highlight the need of today’s media to catch up with the reality of American society. ‘ ‘ ‘ This election will prove that a candidate like Obama has the ability to overcome stereotypes and unify across all demographics. I believe Pitt students will be unfazed by these irrational comments and come together to elect the candidate who best represents them through his policies. ‘ ‘ ‘ Rocca’s focus on the issue of race deflects attention from the real issues that affect the United States, those of the economy, the war in Iraq and the health care crisis. Regardless of how you feel about the candidates this year, it is crucial that every student be registered to vote by Oct. 6 and votes on Nov. 4. Sonia Zakharenko Senior Political Science