LETTER: Explanation of our justice

Editor,

Steve Determan's letter in the Feb. 5 edition of the Lobo underscores how deeply entrenched racism is in our society. Luckily, his attempt to refute Ms. Valdez's article was illogical and narrow minded.

Although he made many ridiculous assertions, his astonishingly naãve faith in the justice system amused me the most:

"The high number of prisoners is simple. They aren't in jail for no reason. Obviously they committed a crime; they really should stop doing that."

Clearly, Mr. Determan thinks he is capable of solving the complex social problems of the world. Alas, believing that prejudice is a thing of the past does not make it so.

Ms. Valdez, your article made perfect sense to me.

Katherine MacCorkle

UNM student