Stormy Weather

To the Editors of The Crimson:

As a non-resident student, I was greatly disturbed to learn that classes were resumed on Friday, February 10, for those who could "safely and legally" attend. It was virtually impossible for many members of Dudley House to do so. I am sure the decision also inconvenienced faculty members and employees who reside outside of Cambridge.

But more important, the fact that Harvard attempted to return to normal conditions before all other schools and nonessential businesses in the area indicates a blatant disregard for the Governor's recommendations as to how nonessential operations should proceed in the "state of emergency."

Regardless of whether it was safe or legal for any members of the Harvard community to return to normal activities, more consideration should have been given to the impact this decision would have on the cleanup effort in Cambridge and on the provision of essential services to Cambridge residents. It is disillusioning to realize that part of Harvard's uniqueness consists of its ability to discount the reality of these concerns.

It is unfortunate that those who made the decision missed the opportunity the storm gave so many to reassess the importance of their activities when others are in much less comfortable circumstances. The Administration expects its nonresident students to "maintain good order, behave responsibly, and to maintain proper decorum in relationship to the community." I do not believe its decision to hold classes set much of an example for us. But maybe this is one advantage that living away from Harvard provides--it is not so easy to lose touch with reality. Janet Corcoran '79   Chairman, Dudley House Committee