Progessive Democrats of America
Dear Vice President McMorris, Dean Hopewell, and Dean Long:
Progressive Democrats of America, www.PDAmerica.org, with associates in
fifty states and over 70 active chapters nationwide, hereby expresses it’s
unconditional support for all students at Hampton University facing
expulsion or disciplinary action for peaceful protest. In times such as
these, when the conscience, soul, and fundamental morality of all American
citizens is being strained by our government’s actions (or inaction), the
notion that students will be sanctioned by a reputable university for
expressing their opinions in non-violent acts of civil disobedience runs
counter to the values of free expression all Americans revere and
honor. Pressing social issues such as the HIV crisis, genocide in Darfur,
Sudan, a racist response to Hurricane Katrina and the pre-hurricane
community, and the immoral illegal War in Iraq, must be addressed. And who
better to demand accountability than the generation that will inherit these
problems?
In the name of democracy, citizen activism, and our revered First Amendment
freedom of speech guarantees, PDA asks that Hampton University drop any
disciplinary action it is considering taking against lawfully protesting
students. Failure to protect and honor student acts of conscience will
surely dishonor Hampton’s admirable name and reputation.
Yours in the search for peace and justice,
Tim Carpenter, National Director,
Progressive Democrats of America (www.PDAmerica.org)