Date:    1/5/98  1:51 PM
Subject: s7-25-97

To: Arthur Levitt, Securities and Exchange Commission
     
Dear Mr. Levitt:
     
        It has come to my attention that he SEC is considering a rule that
would prevent many stockholder initiatives from being deliberated and voted 
upon at open stockholder meetings.  I must express my deep concern, on 
behalf of American workers.
        Chief among my concerns is that stockholder motions might be
outlawed that affect improvements for women, minority and disabled workers, 
long the targets of discrimination, ignorance, & Glass Ceilings.
Preventing motions and information on issues concerning fair employment 
practices (such as sex and race discrimination and harassment) from being 
brought to Stockholder/Board attention is unAmerican. Sadly, most folks are 
too busy now to notice.
        Is it true that the Proposed rule would also prevent questions
about gender balancing of boards, union negotiations, & the use of child labor?
I hope this is NOT so...this is a primary way that employees, investors and 
customers can influence corporate decisions and increase the chances that 
democracy can prevail in massive corporations. A just & equitable workplace is 
good for American business. Freedom of Speech in Stockholders meetings can help 
achieve this end.
        Please add my protest to the list of Americans who declare that we
are are prepared, without hesitation, to use the Courts, activist networks 
& and the media to fight such a limiting Rule. Thank you for helping to 
permanently Table such innane proposals!

        Respectfully:

        Julie Mikalson

     
Julie Mikalson
4911 NE 12th Avenue
Portland, OR 97211