The Hatchet editorial (“Look out your windows,” Sept. 23, p. 4) suggests that students gaze adoringly at the IMF/World Bank protesters and “educate themselves.” Dissent and protest are necessary ingredients in democracy. But as an SMPA major who pays an additional thousand dollars for our magnificent new building, that we should have to fortify it from senseless damage is appalling. No cause, no matter how noble, justifies resorting to violence or destruction. Someone else’s right to protest should not infringe on my right to go about my day. Hopefully, this year’s protests will not result in significant damage to property or injuries. Participants should know that their cause becomes diluted once they engage in meaningless violence.
-Matt Baer
sophomore