New York Post: Letters February 19, 2005
WARDING OFF EVIL AND STUPIDITY
Putting the First Amendment issues aside for a moment, University of Colorado Professor Ward Churchill should probably be fired for incompetence alone (" 'Nazi' Prof Stands By His 9/11 Slurs," Feb. 6).
The right to free speech is fundamental to our democracy.
A minority opinion, an unpopular opinion or even a hateful opinion must not be banned.
At the same time, Hamilton College is not required to provide a venue for Churchill's venom.
Free speech, yes. Required speech, no.
Everett Lautin
Manhattan
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Newsday: Letters: February 3, 2005
letters@newsday.com
Re: “College panel canceled after death threats” The Associated Press, February 3, 2005
The right of free speech is fundamental to our democracy. A minority opinion, an unpopular opinion, even a hateful opinion, must not be banned. But Hamilton College is not required to provide a venue for Professor Churchill’s vehemence. They need not have offered and they certainly can withdraw their offer. Free speech, yes. Required speech, no. And is a speech for a purported $3500 recompense still free?
Everett Lautin
New York City