I can't help but think that "diversity" is just another way of saying "divide", which is all these ethnic groups seem to want to do. I'll probably be told that's the natural way for a WASP like me to feel.
Wait now - to be fair, if they wanted to divide, wouldn't they just ignore what Burns was doing and create one on their own to compete with his? It seems to me they're crying for acceptance and recognition WITH other WWII vets, not apart from them.
I think it's natural to feel slighted when you're the minority. WASPs in this country, especially in certain parts, are the overwhelming majority. So it's hard for us (as I'm one) to understand exactly what it's like.
On the other hand, I believe a lot of leaders of groups are self-interested and play upon emotions to rile up their people, misrepresenting the true issue or judging prematurely. We should judge each case individually.
On this one, from what I've read, I understand where they're coming from. They're concerned about growing resentment and misunderstanding about Latinos/Hispanics living in the US, and they feel this is a great opportunity to give everyone (not just WASPs) a history lesson on their contributions (I was unaware that 500,000 Latino-Americans fought). I can't say for sure that I would've handled this any different. They're used to not being heard, and therefore having to fight to be heard. If I were in their shoes, maybe I'd do the same.
The bottom line is that they spoke up, Burns listened, and now he's editing it. Don't know if he's okay with doing that, but it seems he didn't have to. He could've taken another course of action, like resigning from the project, if it meant that much to him. But their passion and influence obviously resonated. So kudos to them.
Reminds me of a saying I just heard: "That which you tolerate will never change."
