Phil Gasper

Dear President Cartwright:

I was shocked to learn earlier today that David Airhart, a student on your campus, faces possible probation, suspension or expulsion after hanging an antiwar banner on campus. Given that Airhart is a former marine who himself served in Iraq, the situation is all the more outrageous.

I know that your administration is claiming that Airhart is guity of disorderly conduct after climbing a wall erected by military recruiters on campus, even though he signed a non-liability waver, abused and attacked no one, and was himself the victim of abuse and physical assault.

Around the country, students with the integrity and courage to speak out against the unjust and illegal war in Iraq, and against the predatory practices of military recruiters, are being targeted for severe punishment, even when they are guilty of no more than expressing their First Amendment rights. Often they have also been physically attacked by campus security personnel.

Given the tragic history at Kent State, I would have hoped that on your campus in particular there would today be special sensitivity to the free speech rights of students. I am truly saddened that, instead, you have chosen to criminalize legitimate protest. Your actions will have a chilling effect not just on your campus, but on many others.

There is still time to reverse the disgraceful treatment of David Airhart. I urge you to do so.

Sincerely,

Philip Gasper, Ph.D.
Professor of Philosophy
Chair, Department of Philosophy & Religion
Notre Dame de Namur University
Belmont, CA 94002