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Show Member explains SDS's role By Darrell Leo Staff Writer An organizing meeting for students and advocates of the New Left was held to introduce the Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) onto the University campus Tuesday at noon. Jim Beaver, national member of the SDS at Michigan State, headed the informal meeting which drew about 50 people. Concerning the advantages of forming an SDS chapter, Beaver said, "The April Committee isirt functioning anymore because it doesn't give the members something to rally around." In early days, he believed the committee had a lot of support but then turned into a group which was ridiculed. "According to a national report, SDS should . have an increase of 75 in membership," Students are generally being exploited and usually dumped on, Beaver continued. The SDS can provide an out, a way of fighting this exploitation, he said. "SDS can help make students aware of what's happening to them." Beaver continued by outlining the structure of SDS. The national organization is concerned with coordinating powers. In a pamphlet distributed at the meeting, it was reported, "The SDS completely opposes the U.S. government's immoral, illegal and genocidal war against the people of Vietnam. ..demands the abolition of the Selective Service System... has long and actively supported the struggle of black Americans for freedom and self-determination..." A member of the meeting suggested the Pillar of Salt merge with SDS. "SDS could gain a means of communications." she said, "and the Pillar could get a larger staff." Problem areas which SDS, if formed, could look into were brought up in the meeting. Among those presented were abolishing credit for Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) classes, food prices, building relations in the community. It was also decided the April Committee would be kept apart and autonomous from the SDS by those present. National Means Appealing Beaver concluded, "We need to get to the people. The national flavor and organization of SDS looks more effective." Another open meeting will be held for those interested in SDS Monday at noon at a place to be announced. At that meeting, the steering committee, drawn from April Committee membership, will help to present the SDS constitution and applications for recognition from the Student Affairs committee. |
