The Graduate Student Association last night unanimously passed a resolution condemning the recent racial incidents at the University, even though a similar resolution was passed last week by the Graduate Council after racially derogatory flyers were found on campus.

David Waddington, a GSA delegate, said "We are a separate organization. We're making a stance on our own."

GSA has five delegates to the Graduate Council, which is essentially the governing body of the graduate school.

Britta Martini, chairwoman of GSA's division of human diversity, initiated discussion on the matter. She said it was necessary for GSA to pass a separate resolution to show the association's sincere interest in combating racism.

Mike Cawley, GSA judiciary committee member, added that, "It's important that we get on record and say that this stuff's nonsense."

Martini said graduate students and faculty will be encouraged to sign the resolution at upcoming GSA-sponsored events, including tonight's Black History Month movie "Ain't Misbehaving," at 8 p.m. in 112 Kern, and the association's Happy Hours on March 10.

The resolution is also available for signature today through March 10 in the GSA office in 111 Kern.

Though some delegates were in favor of supporting the graduate council's resolution without the addition of their own resolution, GSA President Ken Martin did not agree.

"It's not a minor thing that we're talking about," said Martin, adding that the association should give as much help as possible to combat racism.

Waddington also supported the passing of GSA's own resolution, saying "It's one thing to sit behind what someone else says, and it's another to say it on your own."

So far, Martin said, GSA has participated in the Graduate Council's resolution, passed out flyers advertising yesterday's community gathering against racism and encouraged graduate students to attend the gathering.

Also last night, GSA opened nominations for its officer elections, to be held March 21. Any graduate student can be a nominee for any position, even if not currently a delegate. Interested students must fill out a form at the GSA office.