Powe said he hopes the center would primarily serve and educational purpose but also have offices for student groups, libraries, and a lounge area where speakers could give presentations, exhibits could be held, and students could interact.

"We learn the most through social interactions," said Powe. "The social dimension of the center would provide an important way to increase communication between students."

Former Hillel chair David J. Andorsky '97, who was a member of the panel, concurs that the center would be a positive contribution to campus.

"By bringing everyone together, you're promoting education," said Andorsky. "If you make it easier for groups to interact, you'd see a jump in inter-ethnic activities. This will lead to an increased understanding of each other."

However, a number of undergraduates said they feel an on-campus multicultural center would separate students rather than bring them together.

Andrew P. Schwartz '99 of the Harvard Objectivist Club said he believes racism can not be combated through the establishment of such a center.

"The main idea that underlies racism is that the individual's identity is determined by his race," said Schwartz. "Multiculturalism takes this idea to heart. I think the consequence of this is separation."

Calling the idea for a multicultural center "a fraud," Christopher M. Griffth '97 said that the only oppressed minorities on campus are the conservative groups.

"[The multicultural center will] focus on third world, backwards countries," said Griffith.

According to Griffith the center should also focus on the "old south" because people from the region represent an American culture that is part of the lives of both blacks and whites.

"If they're going to stick to the true definition of the word multiculturalism, they should include [the old south]," said Griffith.

Although there are people against the idea of forming the center, Rawlins said she believes it "imperative that the University make a tangible commitment to diversity."

"Establishment of a multicultural student center would send a clear message to students that the administration wants to celebrate the differences in students' backgrounds," said Rawlins