RAVE ACT OUTRAGEOUS

Dear Editors,

Danielle Ben-Veniste's "Outraged Over Rave" (Issue #4.35) hits the nail
right on the head regarding the federal government's attempted anti-rave
legislation. I am a DJ and long-time member of the rave and club scene here
in California, and I am deeply disturbed by the negative stigma that many
people seem to attach to our culture. Raver culture is extremely positive.
We believe in PLUR (Peace, Love, Unity and Respect) - are these not
worthwhile values? In ravers I see a utopian sub-community, where violence
or "bad vibes" are rare, but caring, understanding and tolerance are the norm.

And as Ben-Veniste mentions, the perceived presence of drugs is
nonsensical. There's more drug use per capita at a rock concert than any
rave or club. The rave backlash is simply a knee-jerk reaction by people
who don't understand this aspect of modern culture and fear it. Jazz music
events faced the same opposition at the turn of the century, as did swing
dancing, Rock & Roll, and so on. Despite the best efforts of conservatives
in each time period, each type of music survived and became an important
part of our culture. Raves and electronic music will do the same.

Sincerely,

Adam Wiggins

(Check for an update by Ms. Ben-Veniste on the RAVE act in this ish (see
Gallimaufry, pg. 5). Apparently Senator Leahy, one of the sponsors of the
bill, had a change of heart and withdrew his support. Maybe somebody put
something in his drink? Peace, Joe Bonni)