Independent Initiative

Because the University has failed to provide adequate support services for Third World students, and in view of insensitivity on the part of other student-run organizations, Third World students took the responsibility for establishing their own ongoing programs and activities. Minority Freshperson Orientation and Prefreshperson Weekend were major programs instituted by Third World students. Once the Admissions Office granted the activities, it became necessary for students strengthen and consolidate those programs. the programs and present their view of life at Harvard-Radcliffe. Through these programs in-coming minority group people are encouraged to consider their tenure here in light of the history and contemporary situation of Third World people in society and at Harvard.

Each Third World organization has also created their own support services such as newsletters, peer counseling and academic support programs, and women's groups. These separate activities have merged in some cases. For example, Third World women have come together individually and as organizations for informal discussions or joint projects. The establishment of a Third World Center could strengthen and consolidate those programs.

Activities like Malcolm X Weekend and the Third World Conference sponsored by graduate students, have become vital components of life in the Harvard and Radcliffe community. These activities have exposed the Harvard community to Third World art and culture, and have generated discussion about national and international politics relevant to Third World people and subsequently to others as well.

The Third World Center then, will provide a central medium which will address the needs of Third World students--as well as the University as a whole, in terms of the position and experience of its Third World community.

Tony Butler '80, a History and Science concentrator, and Renee Tajima '80, concentrating in East Asian Studies, are writing on behalf of the Third World Center organization, officially formed one week ago, whose, aim is to work to ensure the establishment of a Third World Center at Harvard and Radcliffe.