In a letter recently released to the Argus, it is evident that senior faculty members of the College of Letters (COL) and the Administration made an agreement in 1998 that Prof. Howard Bernstein would not be granted a faculty position after June 30, 2001, nor would any of the parties signing the letter propose any further positions.

Visiting Associate Professor of Letters, Bernstein has taught at Wesleyan for over 20 years, during which time he has repeatedly been denied tenure or any long-term faculty position. In the past, students have petitioned, held speakouts, sit-ins, and met with the Administration to support  Bernstein. This week found students resorting to extremes with a hunger-strike: a food-less tent in front of Olin where they hope the Administration and students will sympathize and support. But in these most recent fizzling attempts of support, the one expected voice has been absent. Bernstein has kept quiet about his plans, his emotions, or even what he thinks could be the reasons for the termination of his contract.

While it’s understandable and, to a point commendable, that Bernstein would decide to remove himself from the center of the controversy, if there has ever been an appropriate time for him to break his silence, it is now. 

For the past 23 years, the Wesleyan community has heard explanations from the Administration, and more than a few have been left with unanswered questions. At this moment, students are literally starving for Bernstein. While those most involved may understand their motivation, the majority don’t. Wesleyan has waited two
decades, and we want to hear Bernstein’s side of the story.

Professor Bernstein, we ask that you tell us why you want to stay at Wesleyan or why you deserve it, or what your plans are for the near future. Tell us what you think turned the Advisory Committee against you, and maybe more of the student body will find reason to protest for your sake. Until we’ve heard an explanation of the past from both sides, we cannot decide what is possible now.