The Michigan Review The Jour nal of Campus Af fairs at the University of Michigan 04.16.07 Volume xxv, Issue 12 “Multicultural” New Voice for Features Students at Admissions Dept Programs Perceived adopts geographic College Papers diversity software as “Minority Only” By Adam Paul, ‘08

P. 3 he Harvard Crimson, Harvard University’s Tdaily student newspaper, recently decided to hire an ombudsman. Some professional newspapers have Mitt Romney and embraced the position, similar to the position of public his chances to win editor, in recent years. An ombudsman is employed to Michigan’s vote in represent the voice of the public in the paper. “College newspapers can be monolithic on campus, 2008 this helps to break that down. It creates an independent voice within the newspaper itself,” said Michael Kolber, P. 12 the newly-appointed ombudsman at the Crimson. Kolber is a first-year law student at Harvard, who did his undergraduate studies at Yale University, where he served as the city editor for the Yale Daily News. Be- News fore beginning law school, Kolber worked as a reporter for the Sacramento Bee. “The extent of my involvement with the college, so Kwame Kilpatrick far, has been reading the Crimson,” said Kolber. He said advocates a that this perspective and the fact that he has no previous surprisingly connection to the Crimson provide him with the neces- conservative plan to sary objectivity for his position. Kolber has written one column for the Crimson to save the date. Detroit Public “I haven’t gotten an enormous response yet,” said Schools Apparently this Markley resident missed the memo about LGTB Movie night. Kolber, adding that this may change once the position gets more exposure. Kolber stated that his position will help improve abilities of those at the Crimson. P. 11 While the ‘U’ has mately 800 various student organizations “My column is most well-read by people who work and university programs designed to sup- at the Crimson,” said Kolber. grand claims for di- port diversity on campus. Other organiza- “Just like any newspaper, a college newspaper can The rising cost of tions include the Program on Intergroup make mistakes in judgment, have biases and could need prescription drugs versity, the programs Relations, Women in Science and Engi- an independent voice looking at what’s in the paper ev- hits university health serve more to sepa- neering (WISE), MJustice, and the Healthy ery day,” said Deborah Howell, ombudsman for The care systems Asian Americans Project. These are all en- Washington Post, in e-mail correspondence. Howell dorsed by the University. said that having an ombudsman would teach campus rate than unite These programs all reportedly serve journalists responsibility. P. 10 By Lindsey Dodge, ‘10 diversity, but how they relate to the average Bryon Calame, the Public Editor at The New York non-minority student is a different story. Times, expressed more reservation in a telephone in- It is common knowledge that the Uni- Dr. John Matlock, Director and Asso- terview. He said that good ombudsman require experi- versity of Michigan has dedicated itself to ciate Vice Provost of the Office of Aca- ence. 25th the value of “diversity.” The question is demic Multi-cultural Initiatives, is aware “Unless you get a top-notch person, that could be Anniversary how the practice of diversity at U-M com- that some white or Asian students may more difficult to do at a college paper than at a com- pares to what is preached. feel excluded by these minority gradua- mercial newspaper,” said Calame. Calame did say that Of course, since the passage of Pro- tions. “Usually they [non-minority stu- having an ombudsman could add to a college newspa- MR’s first editorial posal 2, many have fretted over the demise dents] have to have a connection to the per. “Part of the job is to represent what readers really and today’s response of diversity. By taking a look at the various ceremony, [but] there are always many bi- want.” Calame cited that an ombudsman could bring programs supporting multiculturalism on racial students present,” he said. simple improvements, like letting a publication know to needs and campus, this worry seems to be unfound- that its readers expect more serious analysis from pieces demands ed. like movie reviews. Michigan’s dedication to diversity “There are always many “It’s often easy to get feedback but the people at stretches far beyond affirmative action biracial students present.” a college newspaper are often part of the power struc- Special Section, P. 7 programs. Almost every program at U-M, ture” said Calame, who went on to say that an ombuds- describes its contribution to diversity at man could give students another outlet at a campus -Dr. John Matlock, Director and Michigan. newspaper. Calame said a campus ombudsman could MR’s former Associate Vice Provost of the Office There are countless programs de- face pressure from administrators if they criticized a pa- editors comment on of Academic Multi-cultural Initia- signed to increase cultural awareness. Most per for not taking a strong enough stance against the ad- tives, on the ethinc composition of the paper well-known are the Center for the Educa- ministration. While Howell said that a professor could minority graduation exercises tion of Women (CEW) and the Office of make a suitable ombudsman, Calame disagreed, saying Special Section, P. 8 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender “you wouldn’t want a faculty member.” Affairs (LGTBA). The first is described Amy Resnick, the editor-in-chief of The Bond as a “unit” of the University of Michigan. Students know about Michigan’s com- Buyer and a current Knight-Wallace Fellow at the Uni- LGBTA can be found on the third floor mitment to diversity from the moment they versity saw the benefits to readers of an ombudsman. Opinion of the Union, and organizes a separate arrive on campus. Every residence hall has “Anything that helps to better communicate directly celebratory graduation for lesbian, gay, bi- multicultural councils, and all but one has with the public has benefits. No publication is anything Order of Angell’s sexual, and transgender students, known at least one multi-cultural lounge. Many if its not being read,” said Resnick. The Bond Buyer growing irrelevance, as Lavender Graduation. have themes, such as the Umoja Lounge does not employ an ombudsman. and the U-M This separate graduation is not un- in Alice Lloyd Hall. “Umoja” is Swahili for “It will be the job of the editors to define the role,” common. In “The Graduate’s Guide to “unity.” These lounges are open to every- said Resnick. She stated that while she had not previ- Admissions Commencement,” the schedule places “La one, but they are generally frequented by ously considered the possibility of college papers hir- department’s waning Celebracion Latina” in between the School minority students only. ing for such a position that she did not see any risks in transparency of Public Health and the Division of Ki- Shannon Wagner, a University fresh- doing so. nesiology. At the end of the evening, there “The editorial staff should stress the independence is also a “Black Celebratory” graduation. of that person [an ombudsman]. They have to be a part Editorials, P. 4 These are just four of the approxi- See “Diversity” of the paper but also open to opinions other than those Page 3 of the person who wrote an article,” said Resnick. MR MR WWW.MICHIGANREVIEW.COM First two copies free, additional copies $3 each. Stealing is illegal and a sin. (Exodus 20:15) P. 2 Page Two 04.16.07

THE MICHIGAN REVIEW www.michiganreview.com page two. Editorial Board: the michigan review Nick Cheolas ■ Senior Farewells Editor-in-Chief

Michael O’Brien Executive Editor

Adam Paul Managing Editor

Amanda Nichols Content Editor

Brian Biglin Assistant Managing Editor Editor-in-Chief, Nick Cheolas Content Editor, Amanda Nichols Business Staff: Baring a disastrous Geosci 205 final exam, Nick Cheolas Graduating rather unexpectedly this year is Amanda will graduate this month with a degree in political science. Nichols. After she leaves U-M with her BA in English, Karen Boore He will also leave school with an award for outstanding she will, in the words of Adam Paul, be taking advantage Publisher collegiate journalism, a Mitch’s karaoke night title, and a of all the wonderful opportunities life has to offer. That Senior Bar Golf championship. Nick would like to thank means, of course, she has no set plans at the present. Danny Harris his ancestors and the Y chromosome for allowing him She is studying in Florence, Italy this summer, and will Jonny Slemrod to be born a white male and allowing him to exercise his be working on the Oleander Review, the undergraduate- Associate Publishers white male privilege. As such, Nick will be placed a high run literary review she started this year. In coming years, paying job working for the man. Sarcasm aside, Nick will Amanda plans to go to graduate school for something Staff Writers: be attending the University of Michigan School of Law (probably creative writing), and of course, will always be a next year, and getting as far away from Ann Arbor as pos- loyal supporter of the Review. She wishes the new edito- Michael Balkin, Steven Bengal, David Brait, sible. He hasn’t quite figured out how to do this yet, but rial board all the best, and especially hopes the female Erin Buchko, Kelly Cavanaugh, he’ll keep you posted. Nick would like to thank his fellow editors, writers, and of course the publisher, will keep Jenni Chelenyak, Rebecca Christy, editors for their hard work all year, and wishes the Review fighting the good fight. Jane Coaston, Marie Cour, Lindsey Dodge, Blake Emerson, Christine Hwang, Eun Lee, staff the best of luck in the future. Anna Malecke, Brian McNally, Miquelle Milavec, John O’Brien, Kate O’Connor, Adam ■ From the Editor Pascarella, Eddie Perry, Danielle Putnam, Shanda Shooter, Chris Stieber, Evan Wladis, n this, my last issue as Review Editor-in-Chief, we implementation of Prop. 2, then completely dropping the Christina Zajicek, Zack Zucker Itake a look back at the past 25 years of the Review. Pages fight two months later. 6 thru 8 feature our inaugural editorial, comments from past On Page 11, we take a look at the controversy at San Letters and Viewpoints: editors, and a brief look at some of our finer moments. Francisco State University where the College Republicans This issue also examines the a word slightly more om- were recently put on trial after stomping on the flags of The Michigan Review accepts and encourages nipotent than God himself here at the University of Michi- Hezbollah and Hamas. letters to the editor and viewpoints. Letters to the gan: Diversity. Our cover story by Lindsey Dodge takes On the back page, Christine Hwang looks at Mitt editor should be under 300 words. Viewpoints can be arranged by contacting the editorial board. a look at a few of the “multicultural” programs here Romney’s chances in Michigan in the race for 2008. We reserve the right to edit for clarity and length. at the U. While these programs are ostensibly designed to Could the native son have a shot in a socially-conservative serve all students, multicultural events and minority loung- blue state? Send all correspondence to [email protected]. es and advisors are often viewed by students as “minority Our editorials this week lament the Order of Angell’s only.” continued acquiescence to the inane demands of campus About Us: On Page 3, Chris Stieber takes a look at the always- “progressives,” (let’s hope this puts an end to the weekly talkative admissions department and their use of the front page Daily articles), and the unsettling feeling the The Michigan Review provides a broad range of . Interest- University of Michigan admissions department gives us - a in-depth coverage of campus affairs and serves as College Board’s “Descriptor Plus” software the literary voice of conservatism and libertarian- ingly enough, the College Board recently released a virtual department that seems all to happy to speak to favorable ism at the University of Michigan. The Review is how-to manual for universities looking to defeat measures media sources, and all to “busy” when this paper requests published bi-weekly September thru April. to ban racial preferences. Sound shady? Of course it is. comment. Just about as shady as President Mary Sue Coleman pledg- Donate/Subscribe: ing to use the full resources of the University to fight the -Editor-in-Chief, Nick Cheolas

The Michigan Review accepts no financial support from the University. Therefore, your support is critical and greatly appreciated. Donations above ■ Summer Plans for University Personalities $35 are eligible for a 1-year (12 issues) subscrip- Mary Sue Coleman will be planning Former Michigan Daily Edito- Duke Lacrosse players will celebrate tion. Donations can be made on our website at her trip next year to Africa, in hopes rial Page Editor Chris Zbrozek is their newfound freedom by throwing www.michiganreview.com, or mailed to: of finally finding a place with- suffi going to GRADUATE! FOR THE a party, and maybe by hiring a few 911 N. University, Suite One cient amounts of diversity. LOVE OF GOD, YOU ARE LIKE strippers. Ann Arbor, MI 48109 35 YEARS OLD. GRADUATE AL- Lloyd Carr will go into hibernation, READY! The new Order of Angell induct- The Michigan Review is the independent, student-run journal of conservative and libertarian opinion at the University of Michi- only to awake on August 29, lead the ees will finally get rid of the vestiges gan. We neither solicit nor accept monetary donations from the Michigan Wolverines to a winning sea- of Native American artifacts in their University. Contributions to The Michigan Review are tax-deduct- Michigan Daily Columnist Toby ible under section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service Code. son, and then promptly be smacked Mitchell is going to be killed while membership ceremonies, opting in- The Michigan Reviewis not affiliated with any political party or any university political group. around by a PAC-10 team in the Rose giving hugs to lonely members of Al- stead to adopt “Indian” traditions, in- Bowl. Qaeda somewhere on the border be- cluding wearing sarongs and enforc- Unsigned editorials represent the opinion of the editorial board. Ergo, they are unequivocally correct and just. Signed articles, let- tween Afghanistan and Pakistan. ing a caste system on campus. SAAN ters, and cartoons represent the opinions of the author, and not New basketball coach John Beilein could not be reached for comment. necessarily those of The Review. The Serpent’s Tooth shall repre- sent the opinion of individual, anonymous contributors to The Re- will be getting a second job as a bus- Don Imus will open a hair salon in view, and should not necessarily be taken as representative of The boy at Denny’s, in hopes of paying Ann Arbor dedicated to hair weaves. , un- Review’s editorial stance. The opinions expressed in this publica- Dance Marathon members tion do not necessarily reflect those of the advertisers or the off the $2.5 million remainder of his He will enroll in the University to fi- aware that their event was over, will University of Michigan. contract with West Virginia. nally receive a “diverse” education, collapse and die after dancing for

Copyright © 2007, The Michigan Review, Inc. All rights reserved. and will be enthralled when he’s an- weeks on end. The Michigan Review is a member of the Collegiate Network. Zack Yost will be preparing for the nounced as next year’s MLK Keynote next year as MSA president by sitting Speaker. YAF, who didn’t meet their media fix in his parents’ basement, smoking pot, this past year, will prepare for this fall and eating Cheetos all summer. He Jim Tressell will sit around and suck. by making more elaborate tin foil hats, should be well-prepared, come fall. Just sit there and suck. including sombreros, for events such as “Catch a Naturalized Citizen Day.” P. 3 Features 04.16.07

features.the michigan review University Uses Descriptor Plus Program to Pursue Diversity

By Chris Stieber, ‘07 $15,000 per year, will analyze an applicant’s was deemed acceptable because it was the geographic location to place the student in a “only” way that the compelling interest of The University is n the November 2006 elections, “cluster.” According to the College Board, diversity could be protected. Many conser- planning on using IMichigan voters approved Proposal 2, ef- they have segmented the entire U.S. popu- vative commentators, however, have been fectively ending “preferential treatment to lation into 180,000 geographic “neighbor- suggesting a system of socio-economic af- any individual or group on the basis of race, hoods,” and placed each of these “neighbor- firmative action as a system that encouraged “Descriptor Plus,” a sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin,” de- hoods” into one of 30 clusters, each with diversity without making decisions based on computer program spite the protests of school administrators unique attributes. Among the included attri- race. Clegg said that the success of such a and educators, who claimed that “diversity” butes are: mean SAT scores, average parental system would depend on “how objective which targets under- was essential to education. Some of these education levels, percentage of high school (i.e. nonracially) ‘socioeconomic’ is defined, same administrators and education officials graduates entering college, and the percent- and on the good faith of those applying the privileged applicants. are now using a program called Descriptor age of students that are minorities. Using standard (especially if the standard is mal- Plus, a geo-demographic tagging service, to these collected attributes and clusters, U-M leable).” If the tone of comments made by filter university applicants in an attempt to hopes preserve current minority enrollment admissions office staff and President Mary preserve the diversity created by pre-Pro- levels while obeying the letters, if not the Sue Coleman in the past few months are -Descriptor Plus is posal 2 admissions standards. spirit, of Proposal 2. any indicator, however, there are questions provided by the Col- Since Proposal 2 overcame its final bar- The College Board, a non-profit na- about just how committed the university is rier to ballot access this past summer, the ad- tional company well-known for running the to race-blind and objective standards. Cole- lege Board, the maker missions department searched for methods SAT test, is strongly opposed to race-blind man, in her speech on the Diag in Novem- to maintain diversity. Ted Spencer, vice pro- policies like Proposition 209 and Proposal 2. ber, told the crowd, “We will find ways to of the SAT and ACT. vost and executive director of undergradu- In a policy paper titled “From Federal Law overcome the handcuffs that Proposal 2 ate admissions told the Detroit Free-Press, to State Voter Initiatives: Preserving Higher attempts to place on our reach for greater “If you show me a company that doesn’t diversity.” Furthermore, the application for plan for possible changes, then I’ll show you admission continues to have a blank to in- -Descriptor Plus a company that isn’t very effective.” The College Board, a non-profit clude the applicant’s race, despite Proposal groups applicants Prior to the enactment of Proposal 2 in 2’s emphasis on race not being part of the national company well-known late December, U-M accepted significantly decision process. into geographic clus- larger portions of Hispanic, black, and Na- for running the SAT test, is As the university is forced to retool its tive American applicants than at the same strongly opposed to race-blind admissions process, the openness of the ad- ters based on demo- time last year. policies like Proposition 209 missions department is in question. For this graphic similarities. U-M admissions officials hope to use and Proposal 2. article, the department was asked for com- Descriptor Plus to analyze applicants in a ment over two weeks ago, and this writer is more “holistic” fashion. This language is yet to hear a response from the department The University would similar to that of University of California on the use of Descriptor Plus. With the lack then use such infor- – Los Angeles admissions officials, who are Education’s Authority to Achieve Educa- of transparency and continuation of the use suffering an “admissions crisis” several years tional, Economic, Civic, and Security Bene- of race on applications, one is left to draw mation to give some after Proposition 209 ended racial preferenc- fits Associated with a Diverse Student Body,” their own conclusions on the intention of es in the University of California system. In the College Board states the purpose of the the department when it uses Descriptor applicants special the 2007 incoming class of freshman, only paper is to focus “on key issues that higher Plus. In the same Detroit Free Press article, two percent of the class will be black. In light educations institutions should address in or- Spencer said, “We make no bones about the status in admission. of this situation, UCLA officials committed der to deflect (and, ultimately, defeat) similar fact that diversity is important to us.” The to a major shift in admissions strategy in an voter initiatives [to Proposal 2].” university carried out a now-outlawed af- attempt to increase the number of minority Knowing the College Board’s support firmative action program under the banner -Some worry the pro- students without using race in the decision. of affirmative action and frustration with of “diversity” for many years, and is now Personal characteristics and academic char- Proposal 2, some question the intentions of attempting to reach the same goal with dif- gram will become a acteristics, formerly considered by separate the Descriptor Plus program. Roger Clegg, ferent tools. officials, are now considered by the same President and General Counsel of the Cen- The tone of the College Board policy proxy for race-based reviewer, in hopes of finding students who ter for Equal Opportunity, said that the geo- paper, which talks of “defeating” voter initia- have a variety of experiences to contribute demographic tagging might serve as a proxy tives similar to Proposal 2, exhibits much of admissions to the “intellectual and cultural vitality” of for race in an application. “It depends on the same institutionalized opinions that have campus. how the term [‘demographic’], is defined. It not changed, no matter which voter initiative The Descriptor Plus program is pro- sounds like it may be not just a proxy for passes. “It shows that these advisors are less vided by the College Board, the testing race or ethnicity in an application, but be interested in education,” Clegg said, “than in company who manages the SAT, PSAT, and race or ethnicity itself.” guaranteeing a predetermined and politically SAT II exams. Descriptor Plus, at a cost of In Grutter v. Bollinger, affirmative action correct racial and ethnic mix.” MR

“Diversity” gelsang, a current freshman, says, “I don’t talk to any peer housing each year, students are contributing a significant From Page 1 advisors, unless it’s an academic thing.” When told that the amount of money to support these rooms. Alan J. Levy, the Minority Peer Advisor was open to all students for advise- Director of Communications for University Housing, de- man, similar to many non-minority freshmen, does not think ment, she asked, “Then why do they call it ‘minority?’” scribes U-M’s housing system as a self-sustaining auxiliary of she is allowed in the minority lounges. “I wouldn’t think so,” This is the question raised by the University’s dedication the University. Although there is no residency requirement at she says. “I mean, I’m not a minority.” to an ideal of diversity that serves primarily non-white stu- Michigan, it has a very small commuter population. “This is Trelawny N. Boynton, the associate director of Univer- a truly residential campus,” Levy says. sity Housing, asserts that the minority lounges have always U-M does not view the focus of minority services as at been a haven for students of color. “They are a place for odds with a sense of multiculturalism. Levy says, “We believe students of color to gather, not just allies to certain com- Students are made aware of Michigan’s it’s very important for our facilities to reflect our values. We munities,” she says. When asked if she sees non-minority also believe that it’s very important that all UM students have students using these lounges, she responded, “I would hope commitment to diversity from the spaces on campus that positively reflect the contributions that they are.” moment they enter campus. Every of different cultures and ethnicities both for the purpose There is also confusion over the purpose of the Minor- residence hall has multicultural councils, of broadening all of our horizons as well as for maintaining ity Peer Advisors. The office was founded to address the spaces perceived as safe and comfortable.” concerns of minority students on campus. This is not how and all but one residence hall has at least This way of thinking implies that a non-minority space MPAs are viewed by the Housing Administration, however. one multicultural lounge. will solely reflect the values and contributions of Caucasian Boynton states that Minority Peer Advisors are available to students. Beyond the white walls, this might be an exaggera- all students. In fact, when asked how many non-minority tion. MR students used the MPAs as an advising resource, she noted, “very many [non-minority students] go to the Minority Peer dents, in practice if not in theory. Advisors.” Furthermore, funding for the minority resources in the This is not in line with the experience of many Cauca- residence halls are not paid for by tuition or tax dollars: it sian students at U-M, in particular freshman who may not comes almost completely from the student’s room and board be aware yet of all the University intricacies. Amanda Vo- costs. Considering that 94-98 percent of freshman live in P. 4 Opinion 04.16.07

editorials.the michigan review The Review welcomes letters to the The Michigan Review editor. Send letters to: he Michigan Review is the independent, student- Trun journal of conservative and libertarian opinion at the University of Michigan. Unsigned editorials represent the opin- [email protected] ion of the Editorial Board. Ergo, they are unequivocally correct and just. Signed articles, letters, and cartoons represent the opin- The Review reserves the right to edit ions of the author, and not necessarily those of the Review. letters to the editor for length and clarity. Moving Forward, More Transparency Order of Angell’s Looking Back in Admissions Latest Class Only Needed Furthers Irrelevance

ichigan students are not known for being t is ironic, really. ecently, the Order of Angell, formerly Mich- Man optimistic group, but this year of whining and I The University was extremely vocal in its position Rigamua, released the names of the students who will discontent was especially abrasive. on affirmative action, “diversity,” and its racially-involved make up its Pride of 2008. Yet unlike most campus orga- As the year progressed, the list of grievances contin- admissions policies before Election Day. They were clear nizations whose annual membership turnover catches little ued to pile up: first, the passage of Proposal 2 and subse- about the importance of race and gender in its admis- attention, this announcement warranted a front page story quent Ann Arbor hysterics, next was the football season, sions policy. Though disarmed of its point system by the in the Michigan Daily. Despite the controversy and the lin- where a weak finish and contested rejection for the na- Supreme Court, they still were free to run amuck, and guistic and membership changes, there has been no proof tional championship. It continued with the frustration of they made it clear to every underrepresented minority ap- that the Order of Angell is actually relevant. Pfizer announcing the closing of the Ann Arbor facility, plicant, with a wink and a nudge, that their skin color According to the Order’s constitution, the group hopes and ensuing finger-pointing. Finally, there was the politi- would be important in the admissions process. “To create a dynamic, non-partisan forum in which leaders cal gripe-fest in Lansing, where both Democrats and Re- November 8, however, was the day when the admin- of significant, yet disparate, activities can forge deep-root- publicans refused to accept blame for woeful performance istration retreated into its self-insulating cocoon. Since the ed connections through ongoing dialogue.” The upcoming and legislative progress. Each of these shares a common state’s voters banned the University’s affirmative action Pride may do little to bring together leaders who have not theme: all talk and no action. policy, the admissions office has been anything but open already interacted. Ten of the 23 new members are varsity It’s easy to see that the current political and social envi- in its process of admitting applicants. Indeed, the only athletes likely to interact through social networks and at rons are not to Ann Arborites’ liking, with the war in Iraq, real information that has emerged came after a Freedom University-sponsored athlete exclusive events and services, the Bush administration, a growing pressure for privatiza- of Information Act request by the Detroit News. The such as the Ross Academic Center. The group also brings tion of schooling, and their liberal fiscal and political poli- information showed that the University pushed through together two leaders from Dance Marathon- obviously the cies blowing up in their face with the continued depression as many racial minorities as possible through admissions Order will give them an opportunity to interact much more in southeast Michigan. before the December 23 certification and enforcement productively than before. It’s tiresome, however, to constantly hear the same of the MCRI. In managing to unite students of different colleges, the complaints, the same whining, the same gnashing of teeth, Since then, the University administration has been se- Order seems to do somewhat better. Thirteen of the new in the student and local discussion. We get it: you’re not cretive about its internal operations and policies in a way members are students in the College of LSA with a few happy with the status quo. As we move into the next year, that would even make the Bush administration blush. students from the Business, Engineering, and Kinesiology let’s look for action, for plans, for more than armchair The adoption of the MCRI made clear that now, schools. Yet this still leaves schools such as Music, Art and quarterbacking. more than ever, the University of Michigan is expected Design, and Nursing unrepresented. No problem though, In the early 90’s when Republican leadership felt that to be accountable to the voters of the state of Michigan. there must just be no campus leaders in those units. Congress was spiraling out of control and away from pub- Part of that accountability is now the incumbent respon- The Order claims to be an organization that will in- sibility of the University to level with the voters of Michi- crease its members’ commitment to the University and will gan. The University needs to be completely transparent do so “without the need for recognition.” Essentially, this We get it: you’re not happy with the in its operations within the context of admissions and means that despite the new openness about its member- promotions in order to ensure that it is in full compliance ship, the group’s activities will likely receive little attention. status quo. As we move into the next with the MCRI. As long as the Order remains closed-lipped about its activi- year, let’s look for action, for plans, for Right now, the University operates in secret, refusing ties it will be difficult to know what, if any positive, impact more than armchair quarterbacking. to divulge information about its actions to press inqui- the organization is actually having on campus. ries—including those of this publication. The only bit of The Order of Angell became a source of media atten- information they have given us concerns the paltry two tion when, in 2000, the members of Students of Color Co- hours of retraining they gave admissions officers after alition took over their (then Michigamua) office and found lic opinion, Newt Gingrich and the GOP did more than they resumed consideration of applications. The admis- Native American artifacts. The charges of racism levied complain about the current leadership. They created the sions officers who spent a career learning how to give against the organization clearly do not reflect the composi- Contract with America, a revolutionary plan to change the consideration to race in their decisions were essentially tion of the organization today. The inclusion of members way Washington worked, and presented the plan to the vot- told, “Don’t do that anymore,” and then sent on their like the Multicultural Greek Councils president or the Co- ers. way. Chair of the MSA’s LGBT commission place the Order in What followed was a resounding success, a new direc- We hear all sorts of ruminations about how the Uni- line with most other campus groups who seek to recruit tion. Although we’re pretty sure we will disagree with the versity will be using geographical software and all sorts diverse memberships. overall goals and plans of the university administration, it of nifty contraptions in order to maintain the “diversity” Yet despite the changes, campus organizations and would be much preferred to the current state of grousing on campus. But the University should not only comply campus media wish to continue to use the organization’s and ineffective bellyaching. with the letter of the law, but the spirit of it, as well. The past to describe its future. Sadly, this controversy makes A perfect example of this complain-before-action University should not use tactics that have the secondary a campus group that appears to do very little look very problem is the University’s adaptation to Proposal 2. After effect of affirmative action policies under a facially-neu- important. the referendum passed overwhelmingly in the state elec- tral primary tactic. Sure, being picked as one of the most important se- tions, President Coleman, rather than accepting the public’s Unfortunately, we don’t have access to these policies, nior leaders on campus is a great honor. Membership in mandate and reevaluating the university’s policies, set about which inhibits our ability to ensure that this is the case. the Order likely puts members in contact with a network complaining about the election results and pledging to The University is all cloak-and-daggers in regards to how of successful, and likely well-placed, alumni. The Order challenge the will of the voters. Even now, there seems to it has conducted itself during the remainder of the year, of Angell is designed like many other honor societies on be no apparent change in admissions policies, as the blank and there has scarcely been a peep as to how admissions campus. All of these organizations benefit their members. for race continues to remain on the application, and the will be conducted this fall. Frankly, we are not at all opti- They may contribute to community service or work with admissions department stonewalls any effort for transpar- mistic that the University will be forthcoming when this other campus groups, but their primary function is to gen- ency in the process. fall comes. erate benefits for its members. The Order is only different Next year, there doesn’t appear to be any large issues Nonetheless, it is the duty of the press—including in that it is more exclusive. on the horizon. Whatever we as a student body encounter, the Review—to pursue the truth and serve as a check on So, congratulations to the new members of the revised whether it be SOLE and sweatshops or a renewed debate the unabated power and authority of the almighty Uni- Order of Angell. However, their ascension will likely have for divestment from Israel, it would benefit all of us if the versity of Michigan. Although the MCRI has passed, it little impact on the lives of most members of the cam- focus was rather on proposed policies than on the dissatis- is important that the law is actually applied. Throughout pus community. The Order seems to want to exist without faction of the students. the summer and into the fall, we will be here to make sure massive media attention. Until the organization does some- As Lord Jeffrey, Scottish Judge and literary critic, said that what happens is just that. MR thing worthy of further press coverage, that’s a request that “The tendency to whining and complaining may be taken we are more than willing to grant. MR as the surest sign symptom of little souls and inferior intel- lects.” We couldn’t agree more. MR P. 5 Opinion 04.16.07

■ The Deep End Journalism an Important Buttress of Freedoms ixty-three in 2005, and eighty-one Journalists and journalism have an rumors travel more quickly than ever, and means, when it seems no one else on cam- Sin 2006. important role to play in the spread of hard news is on the decline. There aren’t pus has been prepared to do so. We have 2007 is likely to only yield even more democracy and liberal values throughout many people or organizations interested in pursued other stories with the same zeal, murdered journalists. the world. It’s no mistake that many of expending the time and effort necessary to and the simple belief that our work, done Worldwide, journalists risk life and our founding fathers dabbled in journal- bear witness to the truth, and hold corpora- rigorously, can help transform the dialogue limb to get “the story.” The increasingly ism, and made sure to give the press special tions, the government, or other institutions in earnest. authoritarian tenure of Vladimir Putin in protections in the First Amendment of the to account. Good journalism has a role to play in Russia has seen the murders of twenty-one Constitution. It is important that in places like Rus- ensuring the freedom of all cultures—Iraqi journalists in the Over the years, the tenacity of journal- sia, China, or Iraq, there are people who are culture, American culture, and campus past seven years. ists has only increased, in the never-end- working hard every day to ensure that the culture. Freedom may not always depend The Communist ing pursuit of the scoop, the truth, the truth about the maladies of those societ- on the vigor with which journalists prac- government in story. The profession has had its ups and ies be known and exposed, no matter how tice their trade, and there’s no need for China has im- downs—everything from William Randolph ugly they are. In a way, journalists are the journalists to feel arrogant with a sense of prisoned scores Hearst’s promise to ‘supply the war,’ given best way of bearing witness to the evils of privilege; the New York Times’ insistence of journalists the photos to the fabrication of Jayson totalitarianism. Nothing is a bigger enemy to expose national security secrets last after allow- Blair at the New York Times. There have to a totalitarian government than a free summer was an example of this. But the ing them trials also been heroic figures in the press, like the press. Journalists, in their profession, have principle exists: a free and independent in kangaroo famed Woodward & Bernstein. the unique opportunity to stoke movements press is something critically important in courts. And in Now, citizen-journalists are everywhere. and change for the better; they can help call the maintenance of a free society. Iraq, where the Snapped photos or videos on cell phones despots to account with a little ingenuity autocracy of Michael can be posted to blogs or YouTube within and the stroke of a pen (or keyboard). Next year, I’ll be taking over as editor- armed militias O’Brien mere minutes, and be seen worldwide in There is an important role for journal- in-chief of the Review. Needless to say, my increases, sixty- record time. But while the industry may be ism in calling people to account, from Cen- impending responsibilities, compounded five journalists changing, and the definition of “journal- tral Asia to Central Campus. One of the by the Review’s 25th Anniversary, may be a have been killed in the line of duty, all but ism” is becoming increasingly deluded, things we have stressed in our newsroom large cause of my sense of journalistic im- two of them Iraqis. it only affirms the importance of the here at The Michigan Review during the portance. Either way, tradition more-or-less In the face of some of the grimmest proliferation of information and the truth. past year is that our writing needs to have dictates that I relinquish this column space, circumstances, and some of the most The fact is, only organized institutions of its “lie detector” built in. (We used a cruder and move onto bigger and better things. repressive regimes, journalists around the journalists can deliver this consistently, ac- term, of course.) Nonetheless, when the It has been unbelievably fun to write world march on, trying to uncover and bear curately, and effectively. University of Michigan administration gives here, and I hope you’ve all learned as much witness to the truth, where it might not And that is why journalism is more us a line of its typical talk about “diversity,” in reading it as I have in writing it. I’ll see otherwise emerge. important than ever. Misinformation and we have tried to investigate what that really you in the fall. MR

■ Big Talk Observance of major holidays displays secularism’s grasp on Christians he position of prominence that Good Friday, for example, just as they do make it to the entire Triduum liturgy. people are more likely to volunteer at a TChristmas has relative to Easter is the on the highest holidays on the Muslim and It is worth it to consider why many of soup kitchen or go to church to prevent ultimate indicator of how society has cor- Jewish calendars. those lax Catholics, and other Christians themselves from feeling guilty or feeling as rupted the meanings of religious holidays. The result of this “inconvenience” is for that matter, who do not regularly attend if they have received and given gifts for no Easter lacks that Easter must be electively observed, Mass or services, are more likely to bring reason. In other words, they are trying to a fixed date and whereas Christmas is forced upon society at themselves to Christmas Mass than the ascribe meaning to something that would cannot easily large. Because of this fact, Easter is untaint- Triduum services. This shows how secular be just hype, otherwise. Christmas is so be turned into ed by consumerism, save for candy makers influences have affected the faith lives of pervasive it forces even the most apathetic a time for par- employing Easter Bunny imagery. Better Americans. Christians to act Christian for at least a ties and shop- yet, it requires those who wish to observe Easter lacks the consumerism and the short spell. Easter does not penetrate our ping, as much it and the important days leading up to it to other symbols that remind lax Christians everyday lives, nor does society completely as corporate step up and do so, showing a commitment that Christmas is a big deal. That consum- wrap itself around the holiday as it does America would to their faith. erism and those symbols by themselves for Christmas. On the contrary, to observe like to happen. And Christians should step up, since create a completely false holiday—one of Easter requires detaching from society. Christmas comes the Triduum—Holy Thursday, Good Fri- presents, parties, and football—which even But by now a deeper problem—the at a time when day, and Easter on the Catholic calendar—is non-Christians can get into, and which way that lax and even supposedly religious schools are not comprised of the most important days on those lax Christians register with in place of Christians are influenced by the rest of in session, and, Brian the Christian calendar. Unfortunately, this is the real Christmas. The alternate Christ- society—is clear. They start by not going being at the Biglin not usually the case, as too many so-called mas season is thought to be the time when to church on the most holy of occasions. end of the year, religious people are not willing to make you’re supposed to go shopping, while But in the course of daily affairs, the effects many are free even the slightest imitation of Christ by listening to “Christmas” songs which have are seen in the way that Christians pick and from work. Christmas, in other words, is sacrificing the time to attend services, be- nothing to do with Christmas, starting at choose when it comes to the teachings of convenient, and easily exploitable for profit- cause they have come to the same conclu- Thanksgiving; the real Christmas season, their faith and church, feeling free to side seekers. sion as corporate America: Easter is indeed with its staid old songs about the nativity with secular society’s judgment on abor- Easter, fittingly, requires more sacrifice. inconvenient. and singing angels, begins on Christmas tion, the death penalty, and issues of war Christians who wish to celebrate it must Only the most observant Christians morning. and peace instead of their faith’s. In other fit religious services into a schedule that treat the Triduum with the solemnity due. Americans who consider themselves words, I guess we shouldn’t be surprised normally includes school and work. The Despite many churches being full, probably Christians are still compelled to do some- when people don’t make it to church. MR University of Michigan holds classes on at least half of American Catholics did not thing Christian during the season. Perhaps

Business School Remains Exclusive, Even to its own Sophomores By Blake Emerson, ‘09 that perhaps the most coveted aspects of the lieving my stresses—it was the fact that all a most precious aspect of the school, is dis- school would be inaccessible. of the extracurricular activities the school heartening. s a student arriving back for class- The three-year program evolved in re- offers were unavailable to sophomores. The In all fairness to the B-School, adminis- Aes this winter, I felt special. I had com- sponse to the perennial complaints from Career Center is off-limits, and there is little trators admit their mistakes, and are working pleted my first semester at the prestigious near-suicidal juniors who were juggling a emphasis on the few, but certainly obtain- on expanding the career center for next year; Ross School of Business, rigorous schedule of introductory classes able, sophomore internship opportunities. the competence and ability of the faculty a top five undergraduate with a competitive internship process. The If this were the only issue, I could write and administration is not in question. I’m Staff business program. More- new program allows sophomore students to it off as the fact that I am only a sophomore. also realistic that at this point there is no real Opinion over, I completed my first spread out the rigorous load. I rejoiced for But Ross students pay more to attend. In remedy for the situation. But although the semester as part of the first the move to the three-year program and still fact, out-of-state sophomores registered in three-year program provides students with a class in the new three-year BBA program. do. Everything has been so much more laid the business school pay almost $2,000 per distinct advantage over other two-year pro- The school is everything I thought it back in comparison to the horror stories I year more than if they were of sophomore grams, the wallets of current sophomores would be: a top-notch faculty and a tight- had heard before. standing in LS&A. Now I know that the deserve something better. MR knit environment. Unfortunately, the faculty But I started to realize that it wasn’t the Ross School is a great program, but to make forgot to inform the new three-year class relatively lighter academic load that was re- students pay $2,000 more, without access to FightingM theR good fight for 25 Years...

A Cornucopia of Conservative Commentary: Michigan Review Highlights

ver the past 25 years, The Michigan Review has been here on campus representing a conservative, libertarian, and contrar- Oian opinion at the University of Michigan. Here is a look back at some of our prouder moments from the past 25 years.

of dealing with and eliminating discrimination; infring- progress. October 1989 Vol. 8, Number 2 ing upon an individual’s fundamental right to speak and “The Michigan Mandate’s False Promise” express his views has proven to be ineffective as well as Vol. 11 No. 10 The University of Michigan administration has tried unconstitutional. “Are there Really Women’s Issues?” to fulfill the very noble goal of increasing minority stu- Partly due to the media and partly as a result of fem- dent representation on campus. As part of the “Michi- March 4, 1992 Vol. 10 No. 11 inist usage, the phrase “Women’s Issues” has gained cur- gan Mandate,” the administration has dedicated a large “An Elastic Clause for U-M Health Services” rency in many circles. Typically used to denote topics amount of its financial resources to boosting minority Were UHS to abandon its latex mission, however, such as abortion rights, the glass ceiling phenomenon, student recruitment and retention. But recently released it would not be stretching the truth to assert that the and gender equality in the workplace, this phrase is but student enrollment figures reveal the administration’s af- U-M had assumed an unreasonable position. Once the one symptom of an increasingly prevalent mindset, a firmative action efforts have not paid off.… If minority aforementioned initiatives are put in place, few students world view which not only condones, but actually en- representation at the U-M, as well as other colleges and would be able to afford condoms, but few would find it courages, the interpretation of social issues as consist- universities, is to increase significantly, then society must necessary—especially ticket holders. It is a well-known ing of conflicts between or among groups with diver- look beyond the admissions office for a solution. fact, moreover, that raising tuition, creating more uni- gent political interests. Aside from the air of separation versity bureaucracy, and forcing all students, sexually and distinction that phrases such as “gay rights,” “black December 1989 Vol.8 Number 4 active or not, to pay for politically motivated services issues” and women’s issues” imply, they share at least “Students Lose with Credit Change” is much more efficient and fair than relying on the free two features: each views “groups” as monolithic, and The LSA Executive Committee passed a resolution condom market. each presupposes that different groups within society last month changing all upper-level four-credit courses have competing, irreconcilable interests. to three-credit courses for the fall of 1991. This seem- March 4, 1992 Vol. 10 No. 11 ingly innocuous action was taken to create a balance “Self-Destructive Affirmative Action Rhetoric” Vol. 8 Number 7 March 1990 between those departments whose upper-level classes There can be no doubt that different people will “John Doe Tells All” count for three credits and those whose classes do not. interpret and understand various matters differently. “At our law school we’ve got some of the most re- But because the decision, which was made without stu- But insofar as such divisions exist, it is both naïve and nowned First Amendment scholars in the country. And dent input, will have important, and possibly negative, dangerous to pretend that they are uniquely conse- not once, in the entire policy making process, were any implications for undergraduate education, student opin- quences of race and gender: naïve because cross-racial of those lawyers consulted about the First Amendment ions should be considered before the change takes ef- and cross-cultural empathy are evidently quite possible, implications of this policy. In the exact words of Judge fect. in both principle and practice, and dangerous because Avern Cohn, who rule don the case, ‘ I have a hunch they degrade the value of merit by supplanting it with they didn’t want to ask the questions because they didn’t December 1988 a standard based on “unique” racial perspectives which, want to hear the answers.’” MR “‘Code’ Violates Free Speech” in reality, are accessible to people of all races. And such Open and intelligent discussion is the sole means divisive thinking is hardly conducive to equality and In Response to Needs and Twenty-Five Years Later: Demands Still Meeting Needs and Demands hange does not occur in a vacuum. All political and cultural shifts produce a t twenty-five years old, one would think that, by now, The Michigan Review would Cripple pattern, which penetrate the surrounding social fabric. Ahave been content to have graduated from college and left the University of Michigan The most dramatic cultural shift in recent history took place in the 1960s and the reper- forever. But, at the risk of sounding cliché, it’s safe to say: We’re just getting warmed up. cussions of this turbulent era continue to be felt in the American political arena. The history of the Review is storied. It is something important to every writer and editor The “anti-establishment” attitudes of the 60s released a series of backlashes unprec- who passes through the doors of Suite One. If nothing else, we have learned over time to be edented in U.S. history. In the fires of rebellion, a new social science was forged. The healthy appreciative of our history, as well as to learn from it. distrust of authority which emerged brought with it a flood of self-proclaimed crusaders for Twenty-five years ago, some disaffected rapscallion upstarts founded The Michigan Re- justice. Political activism became the goal of every educated man and woman, and for every view. They envisioned a conservative alternative to the more obvious liberal hegemony on social ill, real and imagined, federal legislation was offered as a cure. campus, particularly at the University of Michigan. At our founding, it was not necessarily College students of the 60s were overwhelmed by the battle cries of the “War on Pov- clear that the Review would be able to thrive in such an adverse climate, but our editors wore erty,” and at the same time plagued by a guilty conscience resulting from our questionable on. involvement in Vietnam. They leaped feet-first into the whirlpool of activism—lashing out As time progressed, the Review and its staff helped stare down the U-M administration against what they mistakenly understood to be the cause of society’s problems—the capital- numerous times—from the speech code to affirmative action and the MCRI. The Review ist system. has been a consistent interlocutor against the zaniness of the campus Left, and all their But the quest for Utopia by college students during this era proved to be a doomed one. foibles. Who knows what sort of success they might have had if not for the efforts of The The “War on Poverty” soon ended without a victory, leaving taxpayers and minorities as its Michigan Review. casualties. Activism became the hobby of a few aging actors and sheltered college students, The fact is that—much to the chagrin of those who we have consistently opposed—the and it became apparent that raw emotion is no substitute for a persuasive and rational argu- Review is here to stay on campus, for twenty-five more years, and maybe even longer. We ment. The deafening scream of the radical left for a “workers’ revolution” drove away the are no longer a ragtag group of activists banging at the gates of the University, begging to very workers they were supposed to attract. The decidedly anti-establishment attitude which be let into the dialogue. Rather, both the current editors and staff, as well as those who have prevailed among members of all radical groups had the same effect. And so, in search of a cause, the 1960s student radicals proclaimed a takeover of the liberal banner. To fight the establishment, they created their own liberal establishment. As the climate on campus has changed, so has the Review. The decade that followed the left’s shift in position proved to be the demise not only A publication that tried to reclaim the attitudes and style of its of the worker’s voice, but also of the American Dream. To satisfy the demands made by the liberal establishment, the government began to implement cast “social welfare” programs founding would be akin to the mom or dad who, on parents’ which ballooned the national debt to over a trillion dollars. A more damaging effect, how- weekend, hangs out at a frat party with his or her son or daughter ever, was the gradual erosion of the work ethic, with its promise of success as the result of before a football game. So, inevitably, we have adapted. But our individual effort. editorial perspective is proudly conservative, libertarian, and The social misconduct of students during the 1960s brought to the surface a new breed contrarian—nothing will ever be done to undermine that. of activists demanding change. They demanded change because the political power had become too centralized, and the abuses of power too common. The unsatisfied contingent entering college in the late 70s and early 80s began to challenge the bromides of liberalism come before us, can take satisfaction in the fact that now, the Review is a vital part of the with a unique style; unique because they had relinquished the irrational principles of their campus dialogue; an actor which cannot be ignored. The Review, over the course of the past predecessors and had set a new course for a more prudent order. This new brand of radical, twenty-five years has become an institution at the University of Michigan. But unlike most repelled by the blindly altruistic intentions of their 1960s counterparts, sought to purge the institutions, we have managed to be dynamic and on the cutting-edge of campus affairs. college activist movement of its guilt-ridden and emotional tendencies. Our proud institution has produced our fair share of “the leaders and the best,” as well. Thus, the 1980s brought with them a tide of change in college students, with its roots in Our alumni have served in the White House, become successful journalists, written books, a profound respect for the free-market and individual liberty. A radical dissenter of conser- become professors, and joined the highest echelons of professionals in law, business, and vative origin was born—a dissenter who was not concerned so much with maintenance of other career fields. We like to think, of course, that the skills that have made them successful the status quo as with the creation of a better future. were forged in part during their time with The Michigan Review. The results of the 1980 elections proved that the unsuccessful liberal blueprint for For that, we have a number of people to thank. The generosity of our parent organiza- tion, the Collegiate Network, cannot be understated. Without their willingness to put up with our antics over the years, the Review would not be the same that it is today. Our alumni are The radical conservative ... has arrived on the college always a source of inspiration for us. We are as proud of them as we hope they are of us. Because of their successes after leaving the University, they have gone on to be ambassadors campus. Their desires and concerns are now articulated in for our publication, and have made the Review the nationally recognized publication that The Michigan Review. it is today. As well, all those others who have been generous to us through both time and money—from staff members to donors—have done a mighty service to our publication. change had been abandoned by the American people. The time was ripe for action—and Moving towards the future, it is impossible to look towards the future of the Review, what better setting than Ann Arbor, Michigan, a city transformed by the chaos of the “era of without casting an eye towards our past, as well. It is hard to argue that things have not upheaval”, to serve as the backdrop for a revival of rational political commitment? changed much since the time of our founding. Take, for instance, the story of The Dart- A group of adherents to this new political commitment conceived of a forum in which mouth Review. When our sister publication was founded just over a quarter-century ago in to present their concerns and desires to the rest of the college population. The forum would Hanover, its presence caused such a fuss that one professor actually attacked an editor, and take the form of a review, a scholarly piece devoted to essays, commentary and issues salient bit him! to college life. Of course, this is one extreme example. But in The Michigan Review’s heyday, we have The idea was to confront the existing liberal media on Michigan’s college campuses. The seen our fair share of vandalism, hateful words, and newspapers burned in effigy. But things dream had been born, and only a spark was needed to ignite the powder-keg of dissatisfac- have, in fact, changed over time. Part of this is a testament to the success of this newspaper. tion among the radical activists. But, more importantly, the climate on campus has changed. There are no longer incidents It happened on a Tuesday in October of 1981. An editorial appeared in The Michi- where conservative students are shouted down because of their beliefs by overtly biased gan Daily, the University’s student newspaper, condemning the College Republicans and its professors. chairman, Thomas Fous. Fous, a former employee of The Michigan Daily, sought an appro- Today, liberalism on college campuses is much more insidious. It infects the disposi- priate tactical rebuttal. A scheme was devised after a conversation with Alan Miller, a Detroit tion of nearly every academic discipline and is ensconced within the policies advanced by News writer and National Review contributor, who had written an article pertaining to the the administration of the University. It takes a certain sophistication, now, on the part of Dartmouth Review’s contemptuous attitude toward the university in Hanover. The scheme conservative students to cut through the thick fog of liberalism on campus. Leftist ideology involved taking the liberal establishment head-on by battling philosophy versus philosophy. may be more tempered when individuals speak or act out, but it is still present. The Review, The drama started to unfold as Fous began contacting sources on the plan to bring however, still stands stalwart against the assumptions of a campus like ours. a conservatively-based review to the University of Michigan. Paul W. McCracken, distin- As the climate on campus has changed, however, so has the Review. A publication that guished economist and presidential advisor, encouraged the idea and pledged his support. tried to reclaim the attitudes and style of its founding would be akin to the mom or dad who, The enterprise would eventually manifest itself as The Michigan Review. For Fous, a former on parents’ weekend, hangs out at a frat party with his or her son or daughter before a foot- writer for The Flint Journal, the formation of a student publication came easily. He set ball game. So, inevitably, we have adapted. But our editorial perspective is proudly conserva- about the task of securing bonafide writers and staff personnel. Ronald J. Stefanski was ap- tive, libertarian, and contrarian—nothing will ever be done to undermine that. pointed Editor-in-Chief. Stefanski, an English major, proved to be the perfect addition to the Review’s mixture of satire and commentary. Along with the tasks required to establish such a publication, certain less tangible assets Today, liberalism on college campuses is much more insidi- are also necessary to insure the longevity of The Michigan Review. A host of reputable ous. It infects the disposition of nearly every academic discipline, individuals have given their acknowledgement and support to the enterprise. Among them and is ensconced within the policies advanced by the administra- are: Gerald R. Ford; Russell Kirk, famed conservative intellectual; Peter Fletcher, former tion of the University. It takes a certain sophistication, now, on Republican National Committeeman; Irving Kristol, renowned neoconservative; R. Emmett the part of conservative students to cut through the thick fog of Tyrrell, editor of The American Spectator; and Stephen Tonsor, history professor and con- servative intellectual. liberalism on campus. The radical conservative seeks to mesh the essentials of the conservative philosophy with the 1960s flair for instigating reform. The hope is to concretize the “best of the tried So, as The Michigan Review looks ahead to another quarter-century on campus, we find and true” with the hope of arriving at a rational order, based not on the whims of self- ourselves celebrating the past, while looking towards the future. We are proud of our past, proclaimed social reformers, but on a deep understanding of human nature. The quintes- but believe there is much more history to be made. The Review can only ascend higher, and sential purpose of The Michigan Review is to confront the existing liberal establishment on the work of all those who have come before us is to thank for that. Our editors today are Michigan’s campuses by presenting this new perspective in a clear and precise manner. focusing on not only sharpening our journalism and reporting, but our commentary and in- The radical conservative nurtured by a generation of idealists, politicized by the 60s cisive views on campus events and current affairs. And our future editors—who knows how need for social rearrangement but not overwhelmed by the emotional and guilt-ridden ex- many are on the way—will one day take up the mantle, as well, advancing generations more cesses has arrived on the college campus. Their desires and concerns are now articulated in of conservative thought here at the University of Michigan. MR The Michigan Review. MR This editorial was originally published in the inaugural issue of the Michigan Review. Editors-in-Chief of TheReview ’s Editors-in-Chief Look Back: The Michigan Review Ron Stefanski s one of the founders and first wouldn’t be around next year or even been happier; the Review gave me that. 1982-84 Aeditor-in-chief of the Michigan next issue. Here’s to 25 more years of the times of Review, the first thing I would share We also had a lot of fun. With no your lives. with you is: What a difference 25 years Internet, limited e-mail, and no real call Theodore Barnett can make! phones, campus was different, but the —Ruben Duran 1984-85 I don’t think any of us involved in important things were the same. Like Editor-in-Chief, 2003-04 the enterprise of establishing an alter- those 10 years before us and 15 years native voice on the campus of the Uni- after us, we fought for a different kind While I can only speak to four years of John W. Jacobs versity of Michigan with the Michigan of diversity on campus: diversity of work with the Review and two years 1985-86 Review necessarily assumed that a) this thought and ideas. We gave the cam- since then, I can state very definitively great cause would continue unabated pus the other side of the story, regard- that this publication has an impact at Seth B. Klukoff or b) that students far and wide would less of what the story was, helping the campus level, the state level and na- 1986-89 have assembled the resolve, tenacity students make more thoughtful, bet- tionally. As an involved staff member and craftiness required to keep The ter informed opinions. We benefited during the University’s multi-million Michigan Review afloat over a quarter as well – though few of us would go dollar Supreme Court battle for Af- Marc J. Selinger of a century. Clearly, the student spirit on to become politicians or journalists firmative Action who now can see that 1989-90 at the University of Michigan cannot or public policy wonks, our time at the the taxpayers of the State of Michigan be underestimated! Review helped us become the people (read: shareholders of the University) Political tastes, causes and condi- we are today, a group that I think your had no interest in the policy, it is a huge John J. Miller tions change. What remains the same readers would find to be surprisingly reinforcement that the Review’s mis- 1990-91 (and essential) is that the university pro- diverse in occupation and political be- sion remains relevant and even crucial. vides for every faculty, stakeholder and liefs. Furthermore, it is important to Brian Jendryka student a forum for a diverse, eclectic In the 15 years since I was editor, I congratulate those who carry the torch and wide range of views. Strangely, the have been consistently impressed – and today for their dedication and thick 1991-92 academy tends toward atrophy in this extremely proud – of the thoughtful, skin on a campus known for its bias. regard. So it is incumbent upon the professional, and entertaining presence Twenty-five years ago few could have Adam DeVore rebel voices to strike out, not only car- the Review has maintained. Key to this expected to influence the actions of 1992-93 rying a big stick -- as Teddy Roosevelt success has been a continued passion those to come a generation later, but suggested-- but preparing to stick it in to provide the other side of the story the current staff is true to that influ- the administration’s eye on occasion as while never taking its own existence for ence and make us as alumni proud sup- Tracy Robinson warranted, legal and appropriate. granted. Here’s to 25 more years! porters. 1993-94 Congratulations to all for this cele- bration of the student voice and clam- —Brian Jendryka —Michael J. Phillips Nate Jamison or and spirit that brought us to this day! Editor-in-Chief, 1991-92 Editor-in-Chief, 2004-05 As Emmett Tyrell implored me, Tom 1994-95 Fous and others back in 1982, “Please When I was an editor of the Michigan We all owe a debt of gratitude to The continue to blend ribaldry in with the Review, I liked to think of myself as Michigan Review, for giving us the James A. Roberts II sermonics.” a political iconoclast, battling the left- chance to lead, to develop as journalists, 1995-96 Press on! leaning orthodoxy on campus. But and to stand strong for our beliefs. some of my best memories come from Who among us would be the same Geoff Brown —Ron Stefanksi the time I spent talking with friends without The Michigan Review? The Editor-in-Chief, 1982-84 and colleagues in Suite One. From men we are today were molded by our 1996-97 lampooning the U-M administration office banter and our ability to chal- Lots of fond Michigan Review mem- to discussing Rothbard and Mises, we lenge one another. Benjamin Kepple ories: reading my first byline, watch- covered it all. The Review has left an Who among us would’ve had the ing a federal judge call the university’s indelible mark not only on campus, but opportunity to call something ours on 1997-98 speech code unconstitutional, painting on me personally. I congratulate the campus, to own our college experience, the Rock blue on the Review’s tenth paper on its 25th anniversary and wish if not for The Michigan Review? The Lee Bockhorn anniversary. But best of all may have it success for many years to come! contrarian voice deserves an eloquent 1998-99 been the time when a group of left- and thoughtful spokesman, and our wing students, incensed by our outra- —James Roberts, II Journal of Campus Affairs has always geous little publication, burned one Editor-in-Chief, 1995-96 been that. Matthew S. Schwartz of our issues in front of the Student Who among us would’ve had the 1999-2000 Union (and a photographer). Couldn’t Every college student has a great mem- chance (and the courage) to speak up they have just written a letter to the ory from his time spent in the halls of and speak out against the groupthink James Yeh editor? Of course not: In their view, academia. From spring break in Aca- which floats about campus, without politically incorrect ideas must submit pulco to that one time at Scorekeep- The Michigan Review? Speech codes, 2000-01 to the cleansing power of the flame. It ers where you almost got the hottie’s Asian urination, and race preferences brought a big smile to my face because phone number, everyone has one. all fell to the power of our pens. Dustin C. Lee we had smoked out Ann Arbor’s real Mine might be the nerdiest geek- And who among us would’ve had 2001-02 book burners. fest imaginable: our road trip to the Su- a place to call home, or have had the preme Court. Three of my fellow Re- “safe space” with which to be un-P.C. James Justin Wilson —John J. Miller view editors (and closest friends) and I and carve out independent thoughts, Editor-in-Chief, 1990-91 drove through the night to the nation’s without The Michigan Review? 2002-03 capital, and sat outside the steps of the From that little office on 911 N. My years at Michigan were among the highest court in the land for 24 hours. University began the careers of some Ruben Duran best years of my life and my time at the Through sleet, rain, cold and 12 straight of America’s greatest journalists and Michigan Review was among the best hours of listening to Justin Wilson ar- businessmen. And as long as the lights 2003-04 of my time at Michigan. I was E-I-C ticulate the finer points of Bakke with in that little office on 911 N. Univer- for the Review’s 10th Anniversary. In law students from Howard, we sat. sity stay on, the future looks bright for Michael J. Phillips those days, we never took our existence And sat. And sat some more. Until, conservative thought – at least in Ann 2004-05 on campus for granted. We worked after a bum-shower in the Union Sta- Arbor. on computers at campus computing tion washroom at 7am, we were ush- Thanks for the chance to grow. But centers because we couldn’t afford ered into the Supreme Court building thanks, mostly, for the memories. Col- James David Dickson our own. We held donut sales to help to hear the oral arguments in Grutter lege wouldn’t have been the same with- 2005-06 spread the word of our existence and v. Bollinger. Looking back, some might out them. to raise money to print the next issue. thing it was really, really lame. Well, Nick Cheolas We took our mission seriously because in hindsight, maybe it was. But at the —James Dickson we were afraid that if we didn’t, we time it was a blast, and I couldn’t have Editor-in-Chief, 2005-06 2006-07 P. 9 News 04.16.07 go o dbyes. the michigan review

■ The Angry Greek

There Is More to Life Than Race and Gender

By Nick Cheolas, Editor-in-Chief Not well, I’m guessing. So what’s the difference? white and powerful. They’ll be fine. The answer lies closer than you think—in the moral rel- I know from experience. You’re never “fine” after some- n the day three Duke Lacrosse players were final- ativism and “race and gender above all” propaganda emanat- thing like that, and you never completely recover. Oly exonerated after a year of misguided accusations, ing for the ivory towers of college campuses. Here, the past, It seemed that ESPN.com’s Jemele Hill, a black woman, North Carolina attorney general Roy Cooper announced, “I present, and future are reduced to a struggle between the was one of the few public figures to utter the words “I’m think a lot of people owe a lot of apologies to other peo- oppressors and the victims. This struggle becomes the lens sorry,” aptly noting that “your race, gender and class have ple.” through which all events are viewed. Each issue in today’s everything to do with how you were treated then and how But those apologies won’t be forthcoming—not from society—Proposal 2, the war in Iraq, Social Security, health you are treated now.” Ironic, isn’t it? Al Sharpton or Jesse Jackson; not from the 88 Duke Pro- The difference between the two viewpoints is simple. fessors who advocated a harsher stance against the accused Hill saw the Duke Lacrosse scandal as it was—a horrible players; not from those students who held campus-wide pro- The sad fact is that far too many injustice. Moran saw the ordeal as it fit into his worldview tests, rushing to convict the three men in the court of public forged by liberal academia. The oppressors were simply get- opinion. students are graduating from ting a taste of their own medicine. In fact, I would be willing to hedge my bets that America’s universities unable to Such moral relativism isn’t just wrong, it’s dangerous. these individuals subscribe to the views of ABC News’ view the world beyond race and The incident and its aftermath exposed the ugly reality that Terry Moran, a (presumably) well-off white male who re- the modern university too often eschews the search for truth cently wrote that we shouldn’t pity the exonerated players gender. We can graduate from and knowledge in favor of propaganda. The feigned fights because…well, they’re well-off white males. Michigan without knowing a lick for “equality” and “social justice” (whatever that phrase Indeed, Moran wasn’t alone in his opinion. means this week) were revealed to be the tit-for-tat, stick-it- “They are privileged [sic] rich men who finally had a about the Constitution or personal to-the man crusades that they are. year of adversity in their lives as a side effect of their reckless finance, but we certainly won’t The sad fact is that far too many students graduate from partying...boo hoo,” one reader commented. graduate without fulfilling our America’s universities unable to view the world beyond race “These guys are going to be alright. They had a rough and gender. We can graduate from this great university with- year. But they come from rich and connected families… “Race and Ethnicity” out knowing a lick about the Constitution or how to handle They may have been exonerated of all charges. But I think requirement. our finances, but we certainly won’t graduate without ful- it is naive to think that no improper behavior occurred that filling that “Race and Ethnicity” requirement (or, perhaps evening,” chimed in another. soon, the “Gender and Sexuality” requirement). Let’s try it this way: A twenty-year old girl from a wealthy care, you name it—may have its own story, but there are only In the end, individuals like Terry Moran are unable to family goes to a party, has a few drinks, and ends up getting these two characters. see the world as it is - a world where the forces of good raped. Following the incident, I write that this rich girl “fi- Thus, when three men are falsely charged with despi- and evil transcend racial and gender lines. Such a simplistic nally had a little adversity” in her life, and that while getting cable crimes, endure a year of hell, get dragged through the worldview leaves us unable to confront complex social is- raped was awful, it was naive to think she hadn’t engaged in mud by students, professors, and media members alike, and sues, and four years ostensibly designed to open our minds some “improper” behavior. How do you think that would are forced to pick up the tab for such a ridiculous miscar- has left many of us as closed-minded as ever. MR go over? riage of justice, it’s “not that bad.” Hey, they are rich and

■ The Feminine Mystique

In Defense of the Three-Year Plan

ait, what? Now? I’m graduat- six? Would I look back on my life and for- parents’ couch. even different, happening if I hadn’t applied Wing now? ever regret that last year of college I skipped But honestly, either way, I can’t say I’m for an early discharge. By now, I know how Crap. out on, as a fifty-something Honors advisor concerned. It’s a risk, I know—maybe the this all plays out. The football team will have In August of 2006, when I first casually warned me I would? Would I feel like I’d least-calculated risk I’ve ever taken. But I’ve a decent regular-season record only to dis- mentioned to my parents that I could gradu- missed out on something? been in school for so long, and, once upon a appoint in a bowl game, and then half of ate a year early by taking 14 credits each se- Well, I certainly can’t tell you that now— time, I was one of those students who loved the student body will call for Lloyd Carr’s mester, I really had no intention of actually because right now, I’m reservedly gleeful going; that hasn’t been the case for a while. resignation (but, after his last column, cer- doing it. But when my mother looked at me (if that makes any sense). Gleeful because So many of my parents’ friends—and my tainly not Adam Paul). There will be drama across the table I’m nearly done with this university—I’m own parents, too—have told me they wish in MSA, the Greek system, or some other and said, “You already itching to get out, and I probably they could be back in school, and right now, I large-but-generally-irrelevant campus orga- know, you could would’ve gone insane if I stuck around with just can’t fathom that. But I think that taking nization. President Coleman will continue to save us a lot of Mary Sue and company for another year. this risk and getting out into the harsh world piss off the masses while pleasing a fraction money if you But I am reserved because, truthfully, I have of reality—a world without new school of the population. The guy by the UGLi will did,” I quickly re- no solid plans clothes every play his harmonica. It will snow in April. alized this was, at for the future. fall—will help So while my esteemed colleague Michael least in their eyes, Sure, gradu- Had I made the right choice? Would me to appreci- O’Brien has said to me several times that he a very distinct— ate school is ate the educa- would never want to graduate early, I think and appealing— down the road graduate schools or employers give me tion I’ll return I can now say that, without a doubt, I can’t possibility. in a year or that wow-you-must-be-really-socially- to someday imagine doing it any other way. And no, it re- So I thought two, but for soon. ally isn’t that I can’t imagine a world without Amanda about it. And the 2007-2008 awkward look I seem to get (and, well, I am Nick Cheolas at the helm of the Review (I’m then I thought Nichols school year— have pretty much always gotten) around also not con- not actually convinced he’ll leave, anyway), about it some can I still count the Review office when I told them I vinced there’s or I’m shaking in my boots at the thought of more. And then, the passage of anything to O’Brien as Editor-in-Chief. Instead, I just after I had de- time in school graduated in three years instead of four, keep me in don’t know how I could ever top falling out cided to actually do it, I thought about it years after I’m or even five or six? undergrad. If of a newsstand and giving myself a concus- even more. Had I made the right choice? no longer in I were to be, sion at 11:30 on a Sunday night—and really, Would graduate schools or employers give it?—I literally say, the next I don’t want to try. MR me that wow-you-must-be-really-socially- have no idea what I’m doing. Sure, I’ve ap- editor-in-chief of The Michigan Review, awkward look I seem to get (and, well, have plied to several jobs that actually pertain to then perhaps I would’ve stuck around. Re- pretty much always gotten) around the Re- my degree and skill set; maybe one will pan ally, though, part of why I’m leaving early is view office when I told them I graduated in out. Maybe I’ll be waiting tables with my because I just can’t imagine anything revo- three years instead of four, or even five or B.A. in English. Maybe I’ll just be on my lutionary and groundbreaking in my life, or P. 10 News 04.16.07

nethe michigan ws. review Loophole Fosters Friendship The Cost of Between Universities and Lobbyists Contraception By Jonny Slemrod, ‘10 Using data from The Center for Responsive Politics, AFP drafted a mock bracket which ranks the 2007 NCAA How Medicaid reform has in- all it the March Madness of money. Each year lob- basketball selections by the amount of money spent for creased prescription prices on Cbyists descend on Washington to influence legislators lobbying purposes between 1998 and 2006. The University and politicians, who play a large part in deciding where mon- of Albany (SUNY) came in first, having spent a whopping college campuses ey will be allocated for the fiscal year in appropriations bills. 9,924,992 dollars lobbying Congress. Bringing the larger is- Lobbying, often called “the fourth branch of government,” sue of irresponsible spending of taxpayer money to light, By Rebecca Christy, ‘08 is an enormously powerful sector in American politics. AFP sent letters to all sixty-five universities in its bracket Major companies such as AT&T, Goldman Sachs and requesting that they do not give away free sports tickets to oday’s college students are constantly con- FedEx have spent tens of millions each in donations to po- legislators, a gift which is sometimes utilized by universities Tfronted with rising costs of tuition, textbooks and rent. litical action committees (PAC’s) and politicians in hopes of with high-profile athletic departments. In turn, these lucra- Beginning this month, birth control drugs will be added to swaying legislation, according to The Center for Responsive tive gifts are a lobbying tool used to secure more federal the list. Politics. funding. Unfortunately, the gift ban loophole means that no University of Michigan women may be in for an un- The Republican Party took a huge blow when lobbyist monetary limits are placed on these gifts, and that they often pleasant surprise the next time they try to fill their birth con- Jack Abramoff was accused of giving gifts to legislators in re- go undocumented. trol prescription at University Health Services. As a result turn for favorable legislation for his clients. A backlash against Calls to eliminate the gift ban loophole have been echoed of the passage of the Deficit Reduction Bill in 2005, college “dirty” politics occurred, and many view the Abramoff scan- by eleven other taxpayer advocate groups, including promi- students across the nation are already being charged double dal as an important step in the Democratic Party taking con- nent conservative-activist Grover Norquist’s group Ameri- and even triple the previous amounts for their monthly birth trol of Con- cans for Tax Reform, The American Conservative Union, control pills. gress in the and the government-watchdog group Citizens Against Gov- Most colleges were not fully aware of how the bill would m i d - t e r m ernment Waste. affect their prices, but did manage to purchase contraceptive Because of a loophole, Uni- elections of Since U-M did not make the NCAA Tournament this drugs in larger quantities than usual in order to offset the versities are able to gift free 2006. Private year, it was not included in the list. Of the Big 10 schools price increase for a few months. The University of Michigan sporting tickets to legislators gifts from in this year’s tournament, Purdue, who spent 2,947,000 dol- Health Services received approval to follow this procedure lobbyists to lars on lobbying over the eight-year period, was the biggest and believes it will result in keeping prices down until the legislators spender. U-M is certainly not absent from the Hill, however. end of the school year. and politicians are now heavily restricted, following a 2006 The Michigan Daily reported that in total, the University and As the surplus begins to diminish at some universities, piece of legislation passed in the Senate which requires the the University Health System spent 420,000 dollars in 2006 students are realizing the consequences of the bill. “It’s a disclosure of all gifts. House and Senate ethics rules cur- on lobbying. Threatened with funding cuts for the 2008 fis- tremendous problem for our students because not every rently allow individual gifts of up to 50 dollars per elected cal year, that number may in fact rise substantially. student has a platinum card,” said Hugh Jessop, Executive official, as long as the annual contributions do not exceed While the “Real March Madness” campaign initiated by Director of the Health Center at Indiana University, in an 100 dollars. Americans for Prosperity may seem like a weak attempt at interview with the Associated Press. However, the legislation contains what many view as an discrediting lobbying on the part of public universities, it Jessop went on to describe how students who once paid enormous glitch: the ban on gifts does not apply to pub- is intended to bring to light the larger issue of pork-barrel about ten dollars for a month’s worth of contraception are lic-sector lobbyists. Therefore, taxpayer-funded government spending. Wasteful earmarks like 2 million dollars for “facili- now forced to pay twenty-two dollars a month. The Deficit lobbyists, including lobbyists that represent public universi- ties and equipment for an animal facility” at the University Reduction Bill focuses heavily on Medicaid, and is aimed at ties such as U-M, are not subject to the same ban on gifts of Florida and 1 million dollars for a “Renewable Energy curtailing the incentives for drug manufacturers to give col- that a lobbyist representing a company such as AT&T is. Animal Waste Project” at Texas A&M often exist, AFP con- leges a discounted price on birth control pills. Congress has This glitch has several taxpayer advocate groups in a tends, since lobbyists who fight for these projects have no frenzy. One such group, Americans for Prosperity (AFP), gift restrictions. Universities consist of a high demographic of young which identifies itself as “an organization of grassroots Says AFP President Tim Phillips, “That’s a ridiculous people who are in a position to establish brand leaders who engage citizens in the name of limited govern- insult to taxpayers, and Congress should close this loophole loyalty for many years. As a result of the bill, drug ment and free markets on the local, state and federal levels,” as soon as possible.” MR has launched a campaign called the “Real March Madness,” manufactures have now lost a majority of the incen- aimed at exposing the gift ban loophole. tives to provide discounts to university students.

Company Formerly Belonging to Large University been concerned that drug manufactures are providing low cost drugs to commercial customers and private hospitals in Donors Hit With Discrimination Suit exchange for market share and other special arrangements. By Marie Cour, ‘08 disappointment with the lawsuit. “We’re the nation’s best- The rebates have been an important marketing tool used represented retailer in urban areas,” he said, “and manag- by manufactures on college campuses. Universities consist he Walgreens Corporation has recently ers of all backgrounds [are] promoted to senior levels from of a high demographic of young people who are in a posi- Tcome under fire from the United States Equal Employ- those locations. Our commitment is to providing opportu- tion to establish brand loyalty for many years. As a result of ment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), which filed charg- nity to all employees.” the bill, drug manufactures have now lost a majority of the es against Walgreens chain for violating anti-discrimination Although this may simply be a corporate issue, the com- incentives to provide discounts to university students. Man- laws on March 7. pany does have strong ties to the University of Michigan. ufacturers must now pay to provide drugs at a discounted Nineteen former employees filed a complaint against In 1928, Charles Walgreen Jr., who inherited the chain of price, and in addition must also pay fees to participate in the the Walgreens Corporation, which led to charges filed by drug stores from his father in 1939, graduated from Michi- Medicaid program. EEOC St. Louis District Director James R. Neely Jr., who gan with a degree in pharmacy. As the chain became increas- The Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) alleged that “widespread racial bias against thousands of Af- ingly successful, this alumnus became an extremely generous has established some safety net providers to the Nominal rican-American workers” prevented these employees from donor to the University. Price Exemption, such as certain non-profit institutions; earning promotions or raises from the company. He has provided funding for departmental chairs in however, university health providers are not included. The The EEOC claims that the company assigned minor- pharmaceutical sciences, political science, education, and American College Health Association (ACHA) has urged the ity employees to under-performing stores, particularly those music. While Lee Bollinger was still president of the Uni- CMS to include university health services within the exemp- located in neighborhoods with large African-American com- versity, Charles and Jean Walgreen donated $10 million to tions, stating: “An entity at an institution of higher education munities, because of their race. In doing this, Neely argues, the University to be used at the discretion of the President. the primary purpose of which is to provide health services Walgreens prevented many qualified minorities from rising He decided to use half of the money to help pay for the to students attending the institution.” in the corporation while allowing executives to justify keep- Walgreen’s Drama Center, which opened on campus in Oc- The ACHA argues that there are serious consequences ing these employees away from more lucrative jobs even if tober of 2005. if higher education institutions are not allowed exemptions. they had performed well in these communities. But while impropriety might appear between the Uni- Not only will university services have to increase the cost of If the accusations are true, the company would be vio- versity’s staunch defense of “diversity” and the alleged prac- contraceptives, student health plans which cover the costs lating the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and would face severe tices of the Walgreens Corporation, the reality may be less of contraceptives will increase their premiums to cover the penalties. This lawsuit, undoubtedly troublesome to the cor- controversial. price increase. In the long term, the ACHA also believes poration, is the second one to hit the company in recent Despite the name of the company, the Walgreen that many students will have to resort to less effective meth- years. In 2005, for example, a group of fourteen employees family actually no longer plays a large role in the operations ods of birth control because the financial burden will be too from the Midwest filed a class action suit against the com- of the company as it is constituted today. It has been a pub- high. In a survey conducted by the ACHA, 39 percent of pany alleging that the same type of bias had occurred in their licly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange since American college-aged women use birth control drugs. respective branches. This lawsuit has not yet been decided, 1926. The University, for its part, has received money from According to the ACHA’s website, the organization is but because it alleges similar types of biases, it is almost cer- the Walgreen family, and not the corporation which bears currently trying to coordinate a face to face meeting some- tainly a cause for concern for Walgreens. that namesake. MR time this spring with CMS in order to reiterate their pro- In a press release released after the lawsuit was filed, posal. MR Walgreens chief spokesman Michael Polzin expressed his P. 11 News 04.16.07

nethe michigan ws. review Free Speech Debate over “Desecrated” Terrorist Flags

By Christina Zajicek, ‘10 plained to the San Francisco Chronicle, “I Leadership Development don’t believe the complaint is about the des- (OSPLD) could have re- t an October 17th , 2006 anti-ter- ecration of the flag. I believe that the com- solved the manner without Arorism rally, the College Republicans plaint is the desecration of Allah.” In terms formally charging the stu- at San Francisco State University (SFSU) of punishing the students involved with dents. FIRE maintains that stomped on the flags of extremist groups the flag incident, she told the Chronicle she the University chose not to. Hezbollah and Hamas. When school offi- “stands behind this [investigative] process.” “This is not even a cials realized the makeshift flags contained College Republicans at the university close call, legally speaking,” the word “Allah,” this ignited a debate over explain that when they copied the Hamas says FIRE’s Vice Presi- the issue of free speech. and Hezbollah flags from the internet onto dent, Robert Shibley. “First A little over a week later, on Octo- sheets of butcher paper, they did not know Amendment protects using ber 26th, a student at the university filed a “Allah” appeared on either flag because it or destroying flags in politi- formal complaint against the Republican appeared in Arabic script. They contacted cal protest, and even SFSU the Foundation for Individual Rights in administrators must realize Education (FIRE) for guidance during the that they cannot prosecute “This is not even a close call, hearings. FIRE describes itself as a “non- students for failing to re- The Hezbollah flag is at the center of the SFSU controversy. profit educational foundation that unites spect a religious symbol. legally speaking.” civil rights and journalists from across the SFSU’s persistence in pursuing a disciplinary the flag, but what would happen if they did political and ideological spectrum on behalf hearing in this case is a show of contempt the same to an American flag? of individual rights, due process, freedom of for its students’ constitutional rights.” According to the landmark 1989 Su- -Robert Shibley, Vice President- expression, academic freedom, and rights of SFSU and FIRE have corresponded preme Court case, Texas v. Johnson, punish- FIRE conscience” at college campuses. with each other in thr months before the ment for desecrating the American flag con- FIRE President Greg Lukianoff believes hearing, and in a final letter to the University, stitutes an infringement of First Amendment that the university should not sanction the FIRE urged “if you continue to ignore your rights of symbolic and protected speech. student organization. The student cited “at- students. “The College Republicans engaged constitutional obligations, you risk personal The university maintains that the hear- tempts to incite violence and create a hostile in unequivocally protected political expres- liability for depriving your students of their ings will continue. A spokesperson from environment” and “actions of incivility” as sion, and it strains all credibility to think the rights.” SFSU explained that they wanted to “give reasons for the suit. SFSU began hearings on SFSU administration does not know this. An underlying concern is that the uni- all parties the confidence that they will be March 9th, 2007 to determine whether the There is nothing to try or investigate here versity is promoting an unfair agenda against heard and fairly treated by a panel that in- students who stepped on the flag should be other than protected expression,” he said. the student organization. The charge brought cludes representatives of all the university’s sanctioned. Another controversy lies in whether against the College Republicans is that they key constituencies.” MR SFSU spokeswoman Ellen Griffin ex- SFSU’s Office of Student Programs and desecrated Allah’s name when stepping on

Davidson College Unveils New Plan Kilpatrick Champions to Ease Burden on Low-Income Students Charter Schools “That money, earmarked specifically for By Anna Malecke, ‘10 energies be put toward the DPS, and does By Zack Zucker, ‘10 need-based and merit scholarship, has clearly not support a policy that would drain even helped in both reducing the loan amounts ow to fix Detroit’s Public Schools more students from the public schools and illions of American chil- given within financial aid packages and in Hremains one of the most debated is- thus reduce the number of union teachers. Mdren, of different races, regions, and the offering of true merit scholarships,” said sues in the Michigan today. Perhaps the Winfrey feels the mayor should focus backgrounds wish to get a higher education. Gruber. most pressing quandry to this question is on Detroit’s public schools and their future. However, they often share one trait in com- But can this revolutionary change oc- the failing Detroit Public School System. “I see the Mayor strengthening the pub- mon: being unable to afford the skyrocket- cur here at the University of Michigan? Of Last month, Democratic Mayor Kwame Kil- lic schools and taking the district to another ing costs of a college education. course, Michigan has a Davidson of its own patrick advocated a controversial solution level,” he said. For Winfrey, a successful Higher education in America is a prod- (not to mention a Taubman, a Ross, etc.) to which normally finds support among - con future for the DPS hinges on a partnership uct, and, like all other products, better qual- donate funds for grants, along with what the servatives: the opening of new charter and with the state of Michigan’s three research ity schools carry higher price tags. For those University proudly hails as the largest alumni private schools. universities, Michigan State, Wayne State, who cannot attain scholarships, student network in the nation. While U-M currently As reported by the Detroit Free Press, and Michigan. loans are often the only way of absorbing gives out student loans, it eliminated them the Mayor recently claimed he has engaged “I believe we should bring these three the costs. These loans, however, mean living from the aid packages of low income stu- in private talks over the past few months dynamic universities in, not to charter the in a world of debt that can take years, if not dents for this school year, Pam Fowler said, about the introduction of additional charter schools, but to work with a partnership in decades, to pay off. U-M’s Director of the Office of Financial schools in Detroit. Charter schools last made these schools for academics, facilities, and Davidson College, a private liberal arts Aid. headlines in Detroit in 2005 when business- social aspects to help revolutionize the school in North Carolina, aims to provide Fowler likes Davidson’s idea. She said man Bob Thompson’s 200 million dollar schools,” said Winfrey. “ [The schools would low-income students with a better alterna- that “recent studies have shown that stu- donation for charter schools was eventually succeed] if these three universities were to tive with their new financial aid program. dents from low income families have an rescinded when the city did not immediately take a third of the Detroit Public schools After a recent decision by the school’s top aversion to loans that may negatively influ- accept it. and hone in on bringing in resources, faculty, brass, Davidson will scrap its current student ence their decision to attend college. If insti- Two years later, Kilpatrick seems to and research to revolutionize.” loan program in favor of grants and a work- tutions are in a position [financially] to do so, have designated charter schools as a means Kilpatrick’s support for the charter study program. they will adopt this [Davidson’s] program or of providing an alternate educational oppor- schools puts him at odds with the traditional The work-study program is at Davidson programs similar to it.” tunity for Detroit families and for slowing Democratic stance on the attempts to re- differs from other programs. For instance, Fowler did not specify whether the Uni- the amount of students that leave the De- juvenate the Detroit Public Schools. The students at other universities are required to versity of Michigan was considering imple- troit school district anually. fact that the Mayor of the city is now ad- pick a job in the field of their desired major menting similar measures. While Michigan’s Tyrone E. Winfrey, a Detroit Public vocating an alternative to Detroit’s publicly but this is not required at Davidson. While UROP program was originally designed as School Board member and the Director of sponsored, union-bound schools is not only the work-study program has certain draw- a program to assist low income students, the University’s Detroit Admissions Office, an unorthodox Democratic position, but an backs, such as a loss of funds earned from UROP has been expanded to include re- does not believe charter schools are the best indication of the extent to which the school work that previously went towards living search opportunities for students who do solution to the education problem in De- system is suffering serious problems. costs, the program may help keep students not qualify for work-study, Fowler said. troit. Winfrey has an optimistic view of the out of debt when they graduate from col- A program similar to UROP was started “I’m concerned about charter schools DPS woes, and expects to see an improve- lege. which paid wages to low-income students— coming into the district at a much higher ment in the next five years if the university According to Davidson’s Vice President wages which would be directly deposited into rate,” he said. “We do not need a quick fix in partnership is created. He also expressed his and Dean of Admissions Charles Gruber, helping take care of the students’ tuition bal- the city of Detroit.” dedication to the rejuvenation of Detroit’s the decision came after over fifteen years of ance Jobs working for the university, such as Kilpatrick has recently urged policy schools. study by the school’s trustees. The school at residence hall front desks and cafeterias, makers in Detroit to concentrate on the edu- “As a member of the school board, I’m has received over $130 million over the last could also be included. cation of the children in general outside of going to be the person who will help to make two years in private donations, which they Gruber, for one, thinks that many more the framework of the public school system. this thing happen,” said Winfrey. MR say is necessary to fund the changed finan- schools would implement the plan if they However, the teachers union, the Detroit cial aid program. could afford it. MR Federation of Teachers, would rather see all P. 12 Features 04.16.07

features.the michigan review Presidential Hopeful and Native Son: What are His Chances in Michigan?

By Christine Hwang, ‘10 only ones that Romney risks losing due to social issues. Romney’s positions on social issues have evolved through- residential Candidate Mitt Romney, the out his political career, causing Gary Glenn, the chairman Pformer governor of Massachusetts, is battling to win of Campaign for Michigan Families and the president of his home state of Michigan, a state that, according to Mark the American Family Association in Michigan, to question Hemingway of the National Review, “may very well be the Romney’s political integrity. keystone state as far as the 2008 G.O.P. primary is con- “According to several Republicans with experience cerned.” running statewide campaigns in the state, if Glenn is for A traditionally swayable blue state that represents a you, he doesn’t help much. If he’s dead set against you, fair share of electoral votes, Michigan is a vital part of every he can hurt you…Glenn is dead set against Romney,” said presidential campaign. Romney announced his candidacy in Marc Ambinder of the National Journal. Dearborn, Michigan in February of this year with a more Neither Romney, Giuliani, nor McCain fit perfectly in political motive than merely commencing his candidacy in the image of a social conservative, but all must try to gain his conveniently up-for-grabs home state. In June of 2005, the support of the Christian right to ensure a national vic- Romney made a twelve-hour stop making speeches in Oak- tory. land Country, Michigan, the wealthiest county in the state Romney’s emergence as a pro-life and anti-gay candi- and presently, the base of his grassroots campaign in Michi- date, in contrast with his pro-gay past and his declaration Mitt Romney addressing the Detroit Economic Club gan. that abortion should be “safe and legal” in his campaign in February. Romney is no stranger to leading traditionally blue for senator against Ted Kennedy in 1994, leave many un- states. Governor of Massachusetts, what is considered the convinced of his pro-life conversion, which he claims oc- Romney closed a $3 billion budget deficit his first year in bluest state, Romney has fared amazingly well in working curred after dealing with cloning and stem cell research is- office with a heavily Democrat legislature. Each year, Gov- with an overwhelmingly liberal state legislature. sues as governor of Massachusetts in 2006. ernor Romney filed a balanced budget without raising taxes. Michigan leaders are hesitant about throwing their sup- As a Mormon, Romney may have different issues with By eliminating waste, streamlining government, and enact- port behind their hometown boy. Michigan’s Republican the Christian Right than McCain and Giuliani would, which ing comprehensive economic reforms to help spur growth, National Committeeman Chuck Yob and Attorney General brings concerns to some about whether he can actually make Governor Romney helped the state achieve a surplus total- Mike Cox had already given McCain their support before it as a presidential candidate. ing nearly $1 billion in 2005,” claims Romney’s presidential Romney officially announced his candidacy. Some in Michigan do not yet doubt his chances. campaign website. Many University of Michigan students asked on the “I don’t think people really care what religious stand- Romney has had a successful history in financial situ- street do not yet recognize the name Mitt Romney, much points a person has,” said Filicicchia, “Barack Obama’s an ations, making a fortune by helping companies like Staples less know that he is from Michigan. However, it is only the evangelical Christian and he’s probably rockin’ the atheist and Domino’s Pizza as a venture capitalist and, perhaps as early stages of the election and he may become more of a vote right now.” he is best known, rescuing the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter household name when the presidential race becomes more Social and moral values are not necessarily what will Olympics from scandal and financial mismanagement. serious. In 2004, Joe Lieberman was the clear first choice due tip the election one way or another in Michigan. With the Recently, Romney became the lead GOP presidential to name recognition from being Al Gore’s running mate in movement of Michigan-based companies like Comerica and candidate in funding with $23 million, followed by Giuliani the 2000 election, but soon faded into the background when Pfizer to other areas of the country and Michigan’s continu- with $15 million and McCain with $12.5 million. there was more at stake. ously degenerating car industry, economics seem to take an However, as said by McCain campaign manager Terry Skeptics ponder whether Romney, running as the more upper hand at both the very top and bottom of the Michigan Nelson, “Fundraising in the first quarter is no more impor- conservative option to Giuliani and McCain, can really cap- economic scale. tant than fundraising throughout the entire primary election ture the votes of Michiganders. “I definitely think [Republicans would] have a much bet- campaign.” The Howard Dean scenario that occurred dur- When asked whether he thought Michigan could go to ter shot than usual with the current economic situation our ing the 2004 primaries could still occur: the faster something a social conservative, LSA sophomore Mike Filicicchia said, state is facing,” said LSA sophomore Kevin Dilks, looking goes up, the faster it comes down. “Absolutely not…not in this year’s election. I mean, in theo- past social and moral issues. But perhaps, with this sudden financial surge, both the ry, if all the liberals were lame, boring faces like John Kerry With more failure than accomplishment due to Michi- political leaders and citizens of Michigan will finally see and [the Republicans] had someone fiery and appealing, then gan’s Democratic state politics, perhaps voters will sway Re- Romney as a candidate worth supporting. MR yes. But that’s not happening, so no.” publican. However, the votes of liberal Michiganders are not the “Without raising taxes or increasing debt, Governor

Study Finds Legacy-Admitted Students Underperform on Campus by students, grades earned by students of the university and embody the values that resented minority. By Kate O’Connor, ‘09 through the end of their sophomore year, the university has traditionally supported. According to a university official in the and the likelihood of students dropping out According to admission data published admissions office, current applicants are he debate over preferences of of school by spring of their junior year. The by Princeton, 39 percent of legacy applicants evaluated using eight criteria, which include Tcertain groups in university admissions study concluded that legacies who were giv- were admitted last year compared to 10.2 GPA, standardized test scores, essays and continues. While some have long opposed en a greater admissions bonus earned lower percent of applicants as a whole. Legacies recommendations. They do not consider the use of legacy, a new study by Douglas grades once admitted, a fact which surprised represent a very important part of Prince- legacy status. The U-M admissions website S. Massey and Margarita Mooney, Princeton many, including some admissions officials. ton’s student body, but Massey and Mooney’s tells prospective applicants, “Alumni serve as University sociologists, have caused some Traditionally, critics have argued that recent study may force the university to re- a vital part of that community both as life- universities to reexamine their use of legacy legacy preferences diminish the importance consider the place of legacies. Following the long ambassadors for the University, and as status in their college admission process. of personal and academic merit in the admis- publication of the study, Princeton President lifelong learners who are encouraged to con- Massey and Mooney’s study examined sions process, Shirley Tilgh- tinue to be involved in the life and programs the effects of affirmative action programs while also According to a university official in the man asked of the institution after they graduate. Ac- on three groups: minorities, athletes, and heavily favor- the Dean cordingly, we will continue to consider as one students with legacies. The study used data ing wealthy admissions office, current applicants of Admis- of many factors, but not as a determinative from the National Longitudinal Study of a p p l i c a n t s are evaluated using eight criteria, which sions, Janet factor a direct relationship, or step-family re- Freshman (NLSF), a sample of 4000 fresh- whom they Rapelye, to lationship, with someone who has attended man at 28 elite American universities, to believe do not include GPA, standardized test scores, examine data the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor as a understand the effects of admissions prefer- deserve addi- essays and recommendations. regarding the degree-seeking student.” Although legacy ences among certain groups. tional advan- performance status could give a small boost to a student “In schools with a stronger commit- tages. Private of the uni- on the edge, it seems to play a very small part ment to legacy admissions, the children of universities such as Princeton however, rely versity’s legacy students. in the current admission decision process. alumni were more likely to drop out,” the heavily on alumni relations as their contin- Although this might prove to be a big While the U-M admission policy toward study stated. “Ironically, the only evidence ued support through business, publicity, do- problem for schools across the country, legacies has changed since the elimination of we find of a skills mismatch is for the chil- nations and funds are instrumental in fund- Michigan will be spared from this debate. the point-based admission system, the future dren of alumni. The greater the gap between ing many university endeavors. The University of Michigan’s admissions for legacies at private schools like Princeton a legacy student’s SAT and the institutional Donations from alumni contribute to point system, which was discontinued in in uncertain. Although it seems unlikely that average SAT, the lower the grades he or she building renovations and technological up- 2003, awarded legacy applicants four points legacy preferences would be completely earned, though the effect size was modest.” grades, as well as supporting financial aid for having a parent or step-parent, and one eliminated at these schools, Massey and Massey and Mooney compared the programs for many financially disadvantaged point for a grandparent, spouse, or sibling Mooney’s have raised important questions number of hours studied per week, the “psy- students. Legacy students are also thought who attended the university, compared to 20 about legacy students on campus. MR chological performance burden” reported to better understand the sense of tradition points for being a member of an underrep-