I am writing this letter in regards to the infuriating comments made by Paul Perry about the Virginia Tech massacre. Perry stated that the so-called "deceitful rich kids exacerbated the feelings of social ostracization residing within Cho Seung-Hui" and that "his community failed him."
These comments are absolutely abhorrent and downright disrespectful to the entire Virginia Tech community. There are some people in this world, whether as a result of their upbringing or an inherent mental condition, that simply cannot or do not want to be helped. We cannot blame any sort of college student or community for the violent act of any deranged individual.
It is clear from Cho's aggressive diatribe and actions in his classes that no amount of reaching out to him from friends or professors could have prevented the horrific massacre. One can only do so much in a case such as this and his professors attempted to get him medical treatment for his depression and violent tendencies.
Perry's analysis of the situation ignorantly disregards the fundamental concept of personal responsibility. Had Cho not taken his own life, he would have been prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law for his horrific actions and he alone would have been found responsible for what he did.
Again, I must stress that when an anti-social individual repels his fellow classmates and roommates with such ferocity, it is not their duty to "fix" him, so to speak.
I find Perry's comments on this subject personally offensive, even though I did not directly know any of the victims of this tragic event. The Virginia Tech community, and the friends and family of the victims, deserve better than an illogical statement that the blame rests with the community's failure to take an individual, disturbed beyond belief, under its wing. There is no excuse for Cho's actions and the responsibility and blame lie with him and him alone.
Alexandra LeBrun Junior, SIS
As a senior nearing graduation, I am deeply saddened by the huge and unecessary loss of life at nearby Virginia Tech. I, along with my peers, feel directly affected by this tragedy and act of terrorism. The victims and all involved were young ambitious college students just like myself.
I do hope that this will be a time to tackle the roots of uncontrollable, blinding anger, hatred and/or lack of tolerance. It makes no difference whether it's Blacksburg or Baghdad - terrorism is terrorism. This incident will spark discussion on a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from immigration to gun control. We must bear in mind, however, that the essence of the issue lies in tackling and correcting hatred before it is too late.
My friend Colin was hit by two bullets but will survive. I can't even imagine what the families and friends of the victims are going through. For now my peers and I can only extend our condolences and pray for all who were affected and wish for an end to such ghastly incidents.
Amen.
Ali Hassan Ayub
Senior, CAS
For more letters, see p. 11.
