Law Dean Condemns Harassment Episodes

In a letter distributed to law students yesterday, Law School Dean James Vorenberg '49 termed "unacceptable" the recent rash of vandalism against the Women's Law Association (WLA).

On March 8, a ballot box being used for a WLA poll on the Law Review's recruitment of women was stolen from Harkness Commons. The theft was the latest in a series of incidents of vandalism against the WLA, including the defacing of posters.

"We take these incidents very seriously. Any student who violates the rights of individuals or groups in this way may be subject to disciplinary action," Vorenbereg wrote. "Behavior which exhibits prejudice and insensitivity has no place here."

Though none of the violators have been identified, Law School student Jill L. Burkhardt said she thought the incidents were unrelated. "I don't think it was a conspiracy," she said.

After the ballot box was taken, WLA President Lori L. Stern met with Vorenberg, WLA members said yesterday. Stern could not be reached for comment yesterday.

"What motivated Dean Vorenberg was Lori's meeting," said Jill Burkhardt, a third year student and WLA member. "My understanding is that he was shocked and surprised."

Women students contacted yesterday said they are concerned that sexual harrassment at the school is increasing. "I think lately it's becoming a big issue," said first-year student and WLA member Anne Schroth.

Burkhardt said the dean's letter would probably not have much effect on reducing harassment, but added that it was an important gesture.

"It served to inform students that this was happening," Burkhardt said. But she added that, "If someone feels that strongly about it, I don't think this letter by Dean Vorenberg will help much."