University of Virginia Library

Letters To The Editor

Slandering A Generation

Upon reading the
outlandish slur upon my
generation and our fine goals
and our attempts to realize
them, I could not avoid
responding.

I was among those who
fought valiantly for our
causes– I was arrested at
Selma, the Pentagon, Chicago
and our own University's
march. I was even arrested in
my own development.

Mr. Laurent and Mr.
Bonfiglio slandered us and have
represented our movement
through their perverted eyes.
Our belief in the revolution is
and was sincere, and our ideals
are beyond reproach from all
except those wrapped up in
themselves and sunk in the
quagmire of apathy.

The spread of the
Haight-Asbury culture occured
precisely because we were
nauseated by middle class
America; drug use spread
because it is self-releasing and
opens the mind the true  
potential of people. Love-grok
is not merely a synthetic
phrase but a reality for
millions.

We have not become bored
with our cause, repression has
taken an even stronger hold in
this nation and our voices have
been forcefully lowered.
Unfortunately, those of
younger years have become
plumply satisfied and see no
further need for action.

I really fear for this country
– now more than ever.

As for you Mssrs. Bonfiglio
and Laurent, I pray for your
pitiful minds and souls!