150 Gather for Sunday Speak-Out Against War

Protests against the U.S. military presence in the Persian Gulf continued at Harvard on Sunday, as more than 150 people met on the steps of Widener Library for a "speak-out" against war.

The protest was initiated by Harvard Students Against War in the Middle East (SAWME) in order to give the Harvard community a full account of the conflict, organizers said.

"We have to be aware of the dehumanization going on when we talk about war," said Joy Clendening '88. "I don't think [the government] gives you the access [to information] that they used to. We have to be informed, we want democracy without hypocrisy."

"The media doesn't really tell you anything," said SAWME member Robyn H. Fass '91.

As students held American flags at the back of the crowd, a series of speakers also made short speeches against the war.

Dunster House resident Larry LaFontaine '90-'91 said that while it fights the war, the United States is neglecting pressing domestic problems such as drugs and homelessness.

One student criticized the University for maintaining a business-asusual attitude while U.S. troops were in combat.

"I am angry at Harvard's lack of acknowledgment of this war." said Kate I. Frucher '93 of Dunster House. "[The University] is prioritizing studies and self-centeredness over our obligation to discuss, argue and play our role in the democratic process.

"The University's behavior has been irresponsible, and destructive," Frucher said.

Fass said he was pleased with the outcome of the event.

"I thought it was great." Fass said "It was an open forum and people were able to develop opinions thoughtfully."