Editor:

Somewhere between the “red sun in our hearts” and an unwritten rule lies a little red book. From its original publication in 1964 until its fall from favor in the late 1970s, Quotations from Chairman was one of the most published books. Citizens of the People’s Republic of China were unofficially required to own, carry, read, know and quote passages from the book. Those who could not produce the book on demand were subject to beatings or imprisonment by the Red Guard.

Why begin a letter about local mass transit with a quick history of the little red book? Because the latest ad campaign from UTA in partnership with the University of Utah has adopted the stance of the PRC. The new “tap on, tap off” electronic cards are being publicized with a poster that shares an eerie resemblance to the crowds of communist China. The dazzling rays of the red sun illuminate the masses as we hold our cards high and declare our devotion to UTA. These posters are not only an insult to the free will of Americans but also a direct insult to the First Amendment promising life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. I am willing to pay for bus and TRAX services through taxes, fares and student fees. But I do not want these premiums furthering an agenda my grandfather went to war to defeat. UTA, please replace these posters with something that does not insult your riders.

Daniel Smith
Senior, Intermediate Business