Unraveling twists in cultural debates
I will try to make this as briefly educational as possible for Mr. Kesler. In your Feb. 25 letter, you stated, “Every culture is not equal in value, nor is every religion.” I replied that they are; I did not say anything about the positive or negative value of behavior within a culture. Nor did I even begin to imply that all cultures and religions are the same, so please do not twist my words.
Having graduated from ISU as a student of cultural anthropology, it would be ridiculous for me to suggest that all cultures are the same. All cultures have identical structure (current students, think layer-cake model), but value and structure are not the same thing.
I am well educated (and have never cared about being “politically correct”) and not at all unmindful or ignorant of the reprehensible behavior of the repressive and genocidal dictators which you mentioned in your letter of March 18. The individual behavior is appalling, but that does not mean the culture is of lesser or no value; i.e., the value lies in the instructional nature of what is morally repugnant. The value lies in the instructional nature of being able to educate your children that these regimes and their actions were and are profane and anathema to mankind.
Please check your definition of racist and racism, Mr. Kesler. It is much more complex than skin color or nationality. There are probably (certainly) things about every culture which some people consider destructive or repulsive. Since your “anti” positions list only Muslims, can I assume you do not have a problem with Judeo-Christian extremists? Or with the LGBT community?
Your arguments are specious, and I am weary of trying to teach an old dog new tolerance.
— Ann Carlisle
Terre Haute
North recognizes its shining stars
On March 18, Terre Haute North High School honored James Eslinger, Susan Smith Roads and Clyde Kersey at the second annual Polaris Recognition Dinner.
During the day, each Polaris winner had the opportunity to talk to over 600 of the students at Terre Haute North Vigo High School. Each of the winners inspired the students with life stories of their personal, professional and civic accomplishments. These individuals make North High School proud to call them Patriots.
This award has been created in honor of Carl S. Riddle, our original North Star, who through his constant and steadfast leadership established meaningful traditions and guided Patriots to their highest level of excellence.
Nominations will be accepted annually to recognize three current or former staff members or alumni who have brought distinction to North Vigo High School.
Again, congratulations to the 2013 Polaris Award Winners — James Eslinger, Susan Smith Roads and Clyde Kersey.
— David Bray
Assistant Principal
Terre Haute North Vigo
High School
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