dadaLab
He Blamed the Solution, Ignoring the Problem
RECEIVED Wed., June 7, 2006
Dear Editor,
Yet again, this paper has allowed space for the usual idiotic, self-righteous, and mean-spirited ranting of Carl Swanson [“Postmarks,” June 2]. It is outrageous of him to blame the “immediate ... destruction” of old East Austin on PODER, the very group that is working the hardest to protect and preserve this community! Their founder and director, Susana Almanza, deserves high praises for her lifetime dedication there. Nevertheless, Mr. Swanson's twisted mind has managed to misconstrue beneficence for malevolence and resort to the condemnation of this woman.
We already know that the rise of property values and the destruction of Austin's quaintness and traditions started back in the 1980s with the arrival of the high tech industry. What quickly followed was the greed and corruption of large landowners, developers, and businesses. It is their encroachment on central East Austin that has gutted its soul. Even though my family has lived in Austin for seven generations, I can't even afford to buy a house in my old neighborhood! I certainly don't blame PODER for that or for the razing of my entire block years ago.
Racism and classism in the world has caused the misery of the masses. Unfortunately, progressive and enlightened Austin still has its share of injustices and prejudices. It is racist to make improvements and developments in East Austin for mostly white outsiders.
Yet again, this paper has allowed space for the usual idiotic, self-righteous, and mean-spirited ranting of Carl Swanson [“Postmarks,” June 2]. It is outrageous of him to blame the “immediate ... destruction” of old East Austin on PODER, the very group that is working the hardest to protect and preserve this community! Their founder and director, Susana Almanza, deserves high praises for her lifetime dedication there. Nevertheless, Mr. Swanson's twisted mind has managed to misconstrue beneficence for malevolence and resort to the condemnation of this woman.
We already know that the rise of property values and the destruction of Austin's quaintness and traditions started back in the 1980s with the arrival of the high tech industry. What quickly followed was the greed and corruption of large landowners, developers, and businesses. It is their encroachment on central East Austin that has gutted its soul. Even though my family has lived in Austin for seven generations, I can't even afford to buy a house in my old neighborhood! I certainly don't blame PODER for that or for the razing of my entire block years ago.
Racism and classism in the world has caused the misery of the masses. Unfortunately, progressive and enlightened Austin still has its share of injustices and prejudices. It is racist to make improvements and developments in East Austin for mostly white outsiders.
Homeless in my hometown,
Anita Quintanilla
Anita Quintanilla
