Letter to the Editor

Washington Post

What to Do About Mr. Bennett's Hypothesis
Wednesday, October 12, 2005; Page A16

I am appalled and angered by William J. Bennett's statement that if we wanted to reduce crime, we could abort every black baby [news story, Sept. 30]. While he went on to say that this was "impossible, ridiculous and morally reprehensible," his original statement produced imagery that sticks in people's minds and is enormously demeaning and insulting.

Mr. Bennett's disavowal does not change the frame of reference he created, one that entered the realm of public discourse and serves as a subliminal confirmation of stereotypes. His status as a former secretary of education gives permission to his listeners to believe and say such hurtful things and reinforces the racism that is still so deeply ingrained in our culture.

Equally revealing is that the response of both the White House and Republican National Committee Chairman Ken Mehlman was to call Mr. Bennett's statement "inappropriate."

Is that an appropriate response to such outrageous comments? This should be a call to action for all of us who care about these issues.

ELIZABETH P. SALETT

President