Racism is so universal in this country, so widespread and deep-seated, that it is invisible. It is so 'normal'. The emotional, sexual, and psychological stereotyping of the females begins in Pakistan when the doctor says: "It's a girl". Women in Karachi work freely in the offices. So far. The recent move by Taliban towards this city could change that completely. In a recent interview to a foreign radio, the Taliban spokesman has said, "The presence of Taliban in Karachi will ensure elimination of vulgarity, obscenity and influence of foreign forces in the city". I urge the government to take a hard stand on this and give priority to providing security to the people of Karachi. -DAWAR NAQVI, Torrance, Canada, via e-mail, August 7.