But Krishnamurthy says that while the politization of ethnically-oriented groups like AAA may not be directly indicative of its members' beliefs, political activism is what the membership wants to see.
"It's very hard to get elected in an organization when you're saying 'let's try to get along,'" Krishnamurthy says. "It's a lot more exciting, more dynamic, when you say we're going to protest for Ethnic Studies."
Former BSA president Kristen M. Clarke '97 told The Crimson last spring that because students on campus are politically oriented, it's natural that organizations like the BSA should also focus on political issues.
"Gov[ernment] is the most popular major at Harvard. The [Institute of Politics] is one of the largest organizations," Clarke said. "Politics is a big issue at this school, so it is inevitable that we are going to be confronted with political issues."
But Alvin L. Bragg '95, who served as BSA president before Clarke, said last spring that conservative blacks tend to feel uncomfortable participating in the organization's political activities.
"Republicans have told us they wouldn't be comfortable in the BSA," Bragg said.
Foster, for one, says she feels comfortable attending BSA events.
"For the BSA the most important thing is bringing speakers to the campus," says Foster. "I don't think the BSA tries to be a political divider."
Charting the Future
All in all, Harvard's conservative minorities seem to agree that it's sometimes difficult to find a place in right-wing politics.
Perhaps some student conservatives can take solace from the increasing prominence of men like Powell or Thomas, but according to Mansfield, much work needs to be done before conservative ideology accounts for the views of blacks.
For conservative philosophy to progress in the new era of thought we are entering, Mansfield says, conservatives must learn to incorporate blacks and other minorities into their party platforms.
"There will be a need for modulation, or modification in the interests of blacks and black conservatives will be especially sensitive to this," Mansfield says. "Such a person as Glenn Loury could be an example to many more black students than he actually is."
"Many [minority students] are just moderate conservatives and feel it's too extreme. A lot are fiscally conservative without being socialy conservative." Sammy C. Lai'97
"[People] laugh because they are shocked to see a black wom- an so openly and visibly aligned with the Republican Party." Amanda P. Williams '96