I was surprised to see a woman debating a sexism case from the standpoint of "tradition" (Tradition Abounds, The Daily Collegian, Sept. 5). Surely Ms. Garbrick knows that long-term American customs concerning women have generally been degrading and discriminatory. This is true in the case of the Blue Band uniforms. Thew traditions have focused on the physical attributes of women (for the pleasure of men) rather than their skills, talents and abilities (for the enjoyment of all). Those women and men who have demanded change in "white male heterosexual" traditions have opened doors for all women, because (despite Garbrick's assertion) we are not all the same -- we come in many different sizes, shapes and colors.

I doubt that Garbrick would argue that height, weight and/or race (which has also challenged the "traditional" uniformity) makes the difference in how well women can twirl a baton, play an instrument or wave a flag. The uniformity that we Blue Band fans expect is focused on the amazing talents of a group that is uniform in its coordination, timing and quality. Knowing that the women are weighed twice weekly --much more frequently that their male counterparts -- to ensure they fit some "traditional" costume and image, is truly saddening.

Although I commend Coach Lawrence for fighting to include women in the Band, let's remember that the fight is not over until women are respected for their skills, not how they look in a uniform. And to Garbrick, I can only hope that she wakes up to the reality of what "tradition" has meant for women.