Conscience on the Campus SIR,—Last autumn a number of students
at the University of Michigan took part in a demonstra- tion against the Vietnam war and staged a 'sit-down' in the local draft board office (i.e., conscription office). They were removed by the police, charged with trespass, and sentenced to short terms of im- prisonment. It is not suggested that in this matter the authorities acted improperly.
Some of the demonstrators, however, held defer- ments from army service on account of their university studies. On the recommendation of the Selective Service Director, these students were re- classified for immediate call-up on the ground that they had interfered with the operation of the selec- tive service system. This action has caused profound alarm even among many who did not agree with the 'sit-down' and, indeed, who thought that the court's sentence was justified. They feel that the cancellation of deferment has been improperly used as a means of preventing the free expression of opinion. Among those who have opposed the action of the Selective Director are the President of the University and the Americans' Veterans Committee. A fund is being raised in order to pay for the legal help and, if necessary, an appeal to the highest court.
American academics are determined that McCar- thyism in whatever form shall not be allowed to return to the campus.
North Wood, Ann Arbor, Mi.. USA
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