It’s Time for Mediation at UCLA

The UCLA hunger strikers protesting the lack of a Chicano studies department on the Westwood campus are to be commended for peacefully exercising the courage of their convictions. They have made their point quite forcefully. But their prolonged water-only regimen could irreversibly damage their health. The fast should end immediately. And outside mediation is now in order to bridge the chasm between the protesters and UCLA Chancellor Charles E. Young.

The students and one faculty member want a Chicano studies department with its own faculty and budget at UCLA, the most prestigious public university in the city with the nation’s largest Mexican-American community. The new department would replace the existing inter-departmental program that depends on teachers from other disciplines. The demands for a department have broad support in the Latino community. For their part, UCLA officials believe there are sound academic reasons for rejecting a department. But Young has exacerbated the standoff with the timing of his decision. He made the announcement on the eve of the funeral for Cesar Chavez, the revered farm labor leader.

Chavez used hunger strikes as a powerful political tool. His actions have inspired the protesters at UCLA. Perhaps his widow, Helen Chavez, should be among the leaders who helps mediate this dispute. At least she may be able to persuade the students that they can end their hunger strike without compromising their principles.

Another possibility is activist actor Edward James Olmos. Or the Rev. Greg Boyle, the Jesuit priest who worked so effectively with gang members in Boyle Heights. Or Daniel (Sancho) Castro, a former college dean who is now an FM-radio deejay whose show is popular with young Chicanos.

And who can persuade Young and other UCLA officials that they can budge without giving in to blackmail? Perhaps former California Supreme Court Judge Cruz Reynoso, a respected jurist and Latino leader who is now a law professor at UCLA. Someone of stature must get both sides to start making progress on this issue before any protesters become martyrs. Their cause is commendable, and worth supporting. But not worth dying for.