Re: "Miss Black Penn State pageant not needed," Feb. 26 letter

The Miss Black Penn State pageant was not formed because we (blacks) wanted to separate ourselves from the rest of the Penn State community; it was done for the same reason that the Miss Asian and Latino Penn State was formed, because we desperately needed it.

We knew and still know that we are not being treated equally on the Penn State campus and we needed a way to celebrate our achievements at this school.

Yes, Carly Hughes has opened the door on minority winners in competitions here besides in sports, but let's not assume that the flood gates have been opened. We still have a long way to go and will continue to have our own representation until we get there.