Diversity -- that's what this University's all about, right?

Well, if we expect the adminstration to put its money (and its support) where its mouth is, student groups should do the same.

In the next few weeks, the Latino Caucus will petition for a seat on the University Student Advisory Board. They deserve one.

Although Latino Caucus has yet to complete its USAB membership application, it is not too early for the advisory board's permanent members to begin reflecting on the advantages of including the group.

Underrepresented students can't affect change until they are given the proper channels to do so. Black Caucus has a seat. So does the Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Student Alliance. Hispanic students on campus have as much right to participate in USAB as any other minority group.

The Latino Caucus serves as both an informational and support organization for Hispanic students. The group works to increase University awareness and develop community bonds among Hispanic students.

As with many underrepresented groups at the University, Hispanic retention is unacceptably low. By creating a more comfortable atmosphere for these students, the Latino Caucus tries to do something about this problem.

The closest Hispanic students come to representation right now is through the Latin American Student Assosiation, a division of the International Student Council. But the ISC, a USAB member, focuses mainly on the needs of foreign students. The concerns of Hispanic students should not be blended in with those of other students.

Hispanic representation on USAB would be a crucial step toward the understanding and recognition of minorities. The Latino Caucus is a young organization, which formed only last spring. A USAB seat would give Hispanic students a stronger voice and help teach other student leaders and groups about Hispanic culture.

USAB members discuss campus issues and other matters among themselves and with administrators, including University President Joab Thomas. By including the Latino Caucus USAB will more closely reflect the mixture of cultures which exist on campus.

The Latino Caucus represents a small portion of this University. But a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. If we don't give Hispanic students the representation and respect they deserve they will be that weak link. And the University community will suffer in the end.