Editor's note
A letter published May 3 on this page used the word "beaners" in reference to Hispanic immigrants and comedian Carlos Mencia's frequent use of the term. While we strive to allow our readers to represent their views freely in the letters section and generally edit only for grammar, length and clarity, this letter's use of the term in question did not meet our standards for offensive language.
As a general policy, we only print coarse or offensive language that is directly relevant and necessary to the topic at hand. In this case, the term was not germane to the writer's argument about University storage and we should have asked him to reconsider this language. We sincerely regret this oversight.
Use of derogatory word in letter was unnecessary
Regarding 'Letters to the Editor' (Thursday, May 3, 2007):
The Association of Latino Princeton Alumni (ALPA) condemns The Daily Princetonian's publication of the Letter to the Editor: "Lack of storage attributed to attic dorms." In his letter, Jonathan Baker '87 gratuitously used a derogatory ethnic slur often used to describe persons of Mexican heritage. His comment stepped beyond the bounds of civil opinion writing and should not have been published. We are calling for written editorial policies that uphold a higher standard on par with the paper's reputation.
Accountability falls in the hands of the editorial staff for deciding to include the comment despite an editor's knowing its derogatory meaning. We note that both the Princeton Alumni Weekly and The New York Times have published policies in which they reserve their right to edit letters for civility without compromising free speech or spirited debate.
The role of the 'Prince' is to serve the University community, and its written policies should be in line with the Princetonian ideal of the civil exchange of ideas. Including ethnic slurs offends not just a single group, but also does a disservice to all Princetonians. It tarnishes what many have worked hard to change: the stereotype that Princeton is unwelcoming to diversity.
We are disheartened that the 'Prince' has failed to live up to its vow in January to "move the conversation [on issues of race] forward." Only by providing a forum for the civil exchange of ideas and views can we truly move forward as a community. Patricia Garcia-Monet '92
Remark was offensive to Latino community
Regarding 'Letters to the Editor' (Thursday, May 3, 2007):
We would like to address our dissatisfaction with Jonathan Baker '87's letter published in response to the article "Lack of storage attributed to attic dorms." The publishing of such a derogatory comment not only shows Baker's insensitivity to Latinos, but The Daily Princetonian's as well for disregarding the sentiments of the Princeton Latino community. In particular, it offends both the Latino professionals and workers on campus. Furthermore, publishing the letter undermines the University's mission of promoting diversity as well as the work of those seeking to improve race relations and immigrant rights.
While we fully endorse freedom of speech, we do not believe that free speech licenses unlimited and senseless racial insults. These comments fail to facilitate positive discussions and instead create the false assumption that such language is appropriate and acceptable.
The 'Prince' should be held accountable for what it publishes, especially when dealing with derogatory terms. While we understand that the 'Prince' is not responsible for Baker's statement, we do ask that it apologize for having published such a statement and reevaluate its current policy allowing the inclusion of such inappropriate and racist comments. Alma Moedano '08 On behalf of Chicano Caucus, Accion Latina, CAUSA, Princeton for Worker's Rights and the Princeton Justice Project
Letter reflected a lack of sensitivity
Regarding 'Letters to the Editor' (Thursday, May 3, 2007):
I'm someone who can usually let go of racist remarks, such as Jonathan Baker '87's comment in his letter to the editor; however, having read this one in particular, it's hard for me to just "let it go." This is by far one of the most distasteful comments I've read in a long time and I'm offended, not only as a Mexican-American, but also as a Princetonian. It's a shame that people who resort to racist jokes such as the one above graduated from a school like this. I'm sure Baker felt that the little mention of Mencia softened the joke a little; well, let me say, Baker — it didn't.
This said, we are all entitled to our own opinions and, yes, we are allowed to share them. Letting others see a comment like his one here, however, does not reflect well on The Daily Princetonian. I realize it's an opinion, and I am aware of the level of informality there is to it, but there should be some selectivity to the whole process. By leaving remarks such as his in the paper, you are showing inconsideration for an entire community. I found it very insensitive. Thelma Ramirez '10
A public apology for negative statement
Regarding my use of the word "beaner" in a letter to the editor, I can only say, I'm sorry.
I never intended offense, only a popular-culture reference, in referring to a hypothetical day-laborer.
Until a 'Prince' editor called me, I had thought the word an invention of the comic Carlos Mencia. I had never heard the word in any other context.
I now know it is a racial slur, considered by many to be as bad as the "N-word".
Had I known, I would never have used such a word in conversation or in writing.
To those who have been hurt by this, please accept my deepest apologies. It was a stupid, ignorant mistake, and I sincerely regret having used such a word. Jonathan Baker '87
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