To the editor:

Lawrence was founded on the concept of helping poor defenseless people overcome oppression. We should again take a leading role in this effort and, in so doing, help ourselves and all future generations in the process.

We are all well aware that global warming may kill millions around the world in countries like Africa.

“Rich countries must take responsibility for having largely created the global warming problem – and cut emissions radically,” Christian Aid said in its report, “The Climate of Poverty: Facts, fears and hopes.”

Should we stand now, 150 years after the Battle of Black Jack, on the opposite side that we stood on then? Shouldn’t we do today as they did then, and stand up against oppression? Is Kansas completely without any leadership on this issue?

Global warming cannot only destroy crop growing areas by spreading desert areas, but it can also spread existing diseases and originate new ones. These are but two of many reasons why rich countries should end overdependence on fossil fuels and help all poor nations ride out global warming by switching to renewable energy sources.

John Steuart Curry portrayed John Brown in outrage and with outstretched arms. I know how John Brown felt as we approach the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Black Jack.

Les Blevins,

Lawrence