May 8, 1958
Smith faculty urge students to act in the wake of South African governmental policies
In the wake of the South African Government’s recent legislation denying Africans access to university, and systemically forcing them to live in poverty without hope of social mobility, Smith faculty responded. On the front page of the Sophian, Professors Massimo Salvadori and Mary Ellen Chase spoke out against apartheid and encouraged students to get involved. Salvadori was involved in the anti-fascist movement in pre WWII Italy, and was a political prisoner from 1931-32. In his letter he told students that in the case of human rights, there were no national borders, and it was their responsibility to be involved and concerned. Chase, who had retired after almost 30 years teaching at Smith in 1955, and told students that the situation in South Africa was vital, because it was barring African students to their right to contribute to the world, and that Smithies should not underestimate the impact of their support.
Salvadori Advocates African Support; Miss Chase Opposes “Apartheid” Plan (1, 6)
[Last updated on October 28, 2018]