The Association of African and Afro-American Students decided this week to modify its controversial membership clause, it was learned yesterday.

Ononeze M. Anochie '64, president of the Association, confirmed last night that the principle of a change had been approved at a closed meeting Tuesday. The group's executive committee will meet next week to draw up a new clause acceptable to the Faculty Committee on Student Activities.

Speedy University recognition is expected to come soon after the change in membership policy is formally announced. The Faculty Committee denied recognition to the Association Nov. 19 on the grounds that its membership clause apparently excluded white students.

"Racial Separatism"

In a letter to Anochie, Dean Watson had said that his committee could not "put the weight of Harvard's approval behind the principle of racial separatism and exclusion."

The clause rejected by the Faculty Committee read, "Membership in the Association shall be open to African and Afro-American students currently enrolled at Harvard and Radcliffe." According to one informed source, the new clause will eliminate all reference to "African and Afro-American" as a criterion for membership.

Martin, L. Kilson, lecturer on Government and the group's faculty adviser, said yesterday that he thinks the decision to change the clause is "all for the better."

University Position Correct

"I thought the University's position was correct," said Kilson. "Now the Association will be able to make a more meaningful contribution to the University community."

Kilson said he opposed the exclusive membership clause because it mistakenly "ritualized" the group's attempt to "find something in the experience of being black."

The Faculty Committee's decision to deny the Association recognition came after six months of uncertainly and wrangling. Recogition gives an organizatio the right to use the Harvard name and hold meetings in University buildings.