Letters to the Editor

Repect for all free speech required

As a student at Fresno StateI am proud that we have a “Free Speech” Area.

I am sure that many of you have become familiar with Pastor Munoz preaching at the “free speech” area.  I have participated in the discussions, more like yelling matches, and found them very disappointing – disappointing because of incidents of attempted violence instead of critical thinking and intellectually challenging Munoz. 

I wish that more students were able to control themselves instead of acting out on emotions and ignorance. I don’t think many students have thought much about how they should behave when confronted with people they don’t like practicing the right of free speech.

Here are a few thoughts to get you started. 

First, if you believe that free speech is an intrinsic human right that all human beings have then your violence against someone speaking freely is contrary to that belief.  The same rules (regarding violence) should apply to you.

Just to clarify, the violence committed against another person speaking freely is to deny and silence another’s right of free speech.  You have to be consistent. 

Some Fresno State students have attempted to deny Pastor Munoz’s right to free speech by reacting violently toward him. 

I would hope Fresno State students recognize the intrinsic human right of free speech and allow themselves and others to speak without the fear of violence.

— John Lo

Biology graduate student

More parking security needed

Ordinarily, I would not take the time out of my schedule to write a letter to the editor, but Kirsten Coachman’s [Feb. 15] article about recent auto break-ins spurred me to comment, especially since I have now joined the statistics of those who have had their windows smashed in.

When I first came to Fresno State, I was assured that it was a safe campus and there were patrols in the parking lots that would ensure my car’s security.  That was one of the main selling points that made my decision to bring up my car.  I don’t really need it.  It’s just a nice convenience. 

So imagine my surprise when I heard about the rash of car break-ins and my shock when, upon walking to my car Tuesday (Feb. 14) morning, I had found my window smashed in. (Happy Valentine’s Day to me!) 

I don’t make a habit of leaving anything in my car, so there was nothing to take, so my car had been vandalized for no reason.  Where were the patrols?  Why has security not been stepped up around problem areas?

Which leads me to my point:  If we can afford to spend a load of money on a Student Recreation Center, why can’t we spend a little of the money to install cameras and associated light fixtures in the parking lots?

— Samantha Howell

Chemistry senior

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