University of Virginia Library

United We Stand

If there has been anything significantly
individual about the current
demonstrations here at the University
it has been our rational
approach to change and the unity
of spirit in which change has been
sought. There is something marvelous
about viewing a crowd in
which bead-angled men march
united with three-piece suiters.
There is something marvelous about
hearing a succession of speakers,
representing all factions of the
University, voice their common
interests without concentrating
more on backbiting than achieving
their goals. There is something marvelous
about feeling a real rejuvenation
of interest at Virginia for
something other than a beer can.
But, there is something very sad
about the potentiality of the present
glorious situation. Suppose the
"student leaders" lose their
momentary enthusiasm and delve
back into their old distrust of "long
haired radicals"? Or suppose these
"radicals" become impatient with
the lesiurely pace of the "Virginia
gentlemen" and disassociate themselves
from a coalition movement?
Stop supposing; it is happening.
Such a polarization of ideals can
only weaken the intensity, effectually,
and sincerity of any demands
or proposals that either
group might make.

Bud Ogle, a very strong uniting
factor at Tuesday's rally, risked
sacrificing the impact of his speech
with a paraphrase of a tired, but
meaningful, cliche: "If there is
really a will, we can make a way."
We feel brave enough to do the
same. "United we stand, divided we
fall."