THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Saturday, May 18, 1996 TAG: 9605170033
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A12 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 31 lines
As a citizen of the United States of America, I am ensured the right of equal opportunities. This, I have learned, is not always the case.
On May 3, an article appeared in the Daily Break section, ``Program gives minority students journalism experience.'' It describes a journalism program that is offered only to minorities. I contacted your newspaper and learned that there are no similar programs for nonminorities.
The program, which offers a free summer journalism course and a trip to the capitol, excludes any and every nonminority group. I feel that this is downright discrimination and completely unfair.
I think those responsible for the fairness of our country should follow the quote by Deval L. Patrick, assistant attorney general, Civil Rights Division, published in the May 3 issue of The Wall Street Journal, ``. . . our mission (Civil Rights Division) is to ensure equal opportunity for all Americans.''
As I stated before, as citizens of the United States of America, we are ensured the right of equal opportunity; however, not at The Virginian-Pilot.
KIM ELLIS
Virginia Beach, May 7, 1996 by CNB