University of Virginia Library

VPP Is First Step

We are applauding the formation of the
Virginia Progressive Party as the first step
toward a truly integrated University: integrated
not only racially and economically,
but also socially as a student body
recognizing its potential for responsible and
effective self-government.

In the past we have sadly observed the
internecine nature of University politics: a
conglomeration of Bourbonist politicos who
have been allowed reign over student
government largely through apathy and
general alienation from the system. This
apathy was to be expected in view of the
non-issue oriented character of former
elections and the paternalistic attitude of
the administration which has allied itself
with the ultra-conservative elements of the
student body

This system has led to an undesirable
polarization of student opinion. It is well
past the time for independents to be
classifying fraternity men as drunken
fascists and for fraternity men to be
pigeonholing independents as faggots.

We look forward to the Virginia
Progressive Party as the vehicle for constructive
change at the University.