‘Marxist Teachers’ Charge by Rep. Dornan

The comments of Rep. Robert K. Dornan (R-Garden Grove) (“Conflict of Patriotism . . . ,” Jan. 26) demands a response from teachers. His highlighted statement was that the street protesters of the war are “high school and college students stirred up by their Marxist teachers.”

This is my 35th year of teaching political science here in Orange County. In addition to classroom teaching during these 35 years, I have served in a variety of statewide, countywide and local positions of office related to education. Not once have I met a Marxist teacher. Nor have I ever heard anyone say anything to even suggest being a Marxist.

Dornan’s blanket accusation of Marxism in our teaching profession is an earmark of irresponsibility, especially bothersome when one considers his high public office. He owes Orange County teachers an explanation and an apology.

DAVID N. HARTMAN, Chairman, Department of Political Science, Rancho Santiago College