Prior to the Blue and White game on Saturday, I checked my e-mail and I was appalled when the vice president of Student Affairs had to send out yet another disturbing message.

What upset me more, however, was what I witnessed while at the game. Within a few minutes of arriving, I saw the members of the Black Caucus run onto the field. Since I had been informed as to the nature of the protest, I found it more than justifiable. Recently, there has been hate mail surfacing on a consistent basis. Thus, it is completely understandable that students would and should take a stand. My question is why weren't they given a microphone or bullhorn so they could voice their concerns? Perhaps that would have been a more appropriate and effective means of protesting. That way, their voices could be heard and their message articulated to the crowd.

Unfortunately, this did not happen and as a result the peaceful protesters were subjected to ill-intended remarks and criticism. Maybe this was their goal -- to arouse attention whether it be positive or negative. I just have to wonder if the protest will help or hinder their efforts. In the stands I sense the tension, the divide and the anger.

I hope that the sit-in will prove successful and work in their favor rather than backfiring and perpetuating the problem.