The "Ebony and Ivory" festival, which promotes intercultural and interracial awareness, opens today and will be sponsoring lectures, workshops, films and discussions on dealing with racism and sexism in our community.

I would urge all Penn State students, faculty and staff as well as area residents to attend any of the activities.

This would be an excellent opportunity for concerned individuals to stand up and be counted in the campaign against bigotry, as well as to learn how to deal with racist and sexist actions.

Alpha Phi Alpha and Beta Sigma Beta fraternities and all the other co-sponsoring University and community organizations are to be highly commended for this fine celebration of diversity.

The University administration strongly supports these efforts to build greater understanding and to eradicate racism and sexism, which hurt everyone.

We welcome the festival participants, especially those who have traveled far, and express our appreciation for their willingness to share their knowledege and friendship in the spirit of diversity.