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Unfortunately, once again we see that the anti-University and anti-student activism is based in dishonesty. Many of the previous posters have identified several problems with Archer's piece, but there are more issues. He mentions the 1990 campus plan and the goal of housing all students on campus; however, he does not mention that it was neighborhood opposition that killed that goal, including opposition from the BCA and the ANC.

In addition, he describes the area as a "ghetto". Yet the Burleith Citizens Association website states: "The neighborhood is wholly residential, forming a small oasis of peaceful greenery nestled alongside Glover-Archibald Park...Burleith is a quiet, almost purely residential, community of about 540 households. Though adjacent to Georgetown, the hustle and bustle of the city fades beyond Reservoir Road and 35th Street." Is Archer saying that Lenore Rubino is a liar? Is he demanding that the BCA change the site to include his claim that it is a ghetto? Which description is the truth?

Perhaps the biggest problem is the presence of hyperactivist neighbors who diminish the quality of life for everyone. I remember how neighborhood activists tried to intimidate legally registered student voters on Election Day 1996. I remember when local activists tried to shut down the Hoya Kids daycare center, and when they created a falsified map of Burleith to try to pass a discriminatory zoning overlay. If activists like Archer want to be treated with respect, they need to start by treating others with respect.

by DR on Jan 18, 2011 9:38 pm • link • report