Letters

Published: Thursday, March 4, 1999

Letters

Black athletes

often overlooked

This letter is being written in response to Reina Maehata's letter ("Race has nothing to do with talent," Viewpoint, March 2).

Maehata's response was critical of Scott Kurashige's submission ("Winners never quit," Viewpoint, Feb. 24).

I was impressed with Scott Kurashige's analysis of the public perception of athletes and the differences between how African American male athletes are seen in comparison to their white counterparts. It is unfortunate that race is such big a factor in these perceptions, but to overlook the stark, racially derived contrasts would be irresponsible.

Therefore, I disagree strongly with the portions of Maehata's letter to the editor that stated that Kurashige was "whining" about how UCLA treats minority athletes. The point is, those who market the football program to the press and general public made a concerted effort to point out potential Heisman candidate Cade McNown's intelligence and good citizenship as well as similar traits in many of those on the offensive line. They all happen to be white.

The same effort didn't appear to be made for players from the defensive unit, even though it seems they had just as many scholars and good citizens. We did hear about the players' athleticism and raw physical talent. Most of these guys are African American.

So Maehata, it's ugly for sure, but there it is. Perhaps you should stop "whining" about anyone perceptive enough to see these differences and open your own eyes.

S. Jeffrey Michaels

Graduate student

School of Education