I am writing in response to Sheena Harrison’s article (“Fraternity paints over heritage message on rock,” SN 9/25).

The outrage felt by Culturas de las Razas Unidas has little foundation. It is unfortunate that Sigma Alpha Mu violated its word to CRU and painted over the rock after CRU had already painted it. I am in no way justifying the actions of Sigma Alpha Mu. However, CRU appears to have misinterpreted the history and rules upon which the rock was founded. The rules governing the rock are unwritten and have been handed down from one Spartan class to the next. Whether fraternity, sorority, minority or other groups, students should respect these rules and each other. It is clear to most students that as long as a group maintains a vigil at the rock no one else can touch it. Once it leaves, however, other groups have the opportunity to paint their message. There are no “call ahead” reservations at the rock which set it aside for the evening. If CRU desires the preservation of its painting, it should remain at the rock until dawn.

Trevor Asti
human biology senior