Ms. Owens characterization of Gov. Palin's reference to Title IX of the Civil Rights Act of 1965 in her column, "Gender doesn't make Palin a feminist" (Sept. 18) demonstrates either her laziness or her willingness to perpetuate the fable of Palin's "inexperience."

Ms. Owens chose to not waste time with facts of the legislation she uses to dismiss the governor. Had Ms. Owens actually attempted to perform the simple journalistic task of research before derogating the statement of a vice presidential candidate, she would have seen that the actual text of Title IX reads, "No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex [...] be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance."

Obviously Title IX encompasses much more than merely women's "government-mandated ability to play sports in school along with the boys." Gov. Palin, I believe, embodies that for which feminists fought. She is a mother of five who also has chosen to pursue a highly successful career. She and her husband appear to share the responsibilities of raising the children and financially supporting the family. She has not allowed gender bias to hold her back on her path to becoming the first Republican vice presidential candidate in history. But because she does not support abortion, she is not a feminist?

Ms. Owens seems to define a feminist as one who "shares both my gender and my ideals." Is feminism about equality or lock step obedience to the mandates of now and the Democrat Party?

Ms. Owens' column was a fine example of ignorance, laziness, prejudice, and bias. Was she attempting to persuade fellow students or auditioning for MSNBC?

Andrew Flenner

Class of 1974