In light of the attention that has been paid recently to Professor Richard Berthold, it seemed prudent to bring up White House press secretary Ari Fleischer's instructions last week.
"The reminder is to all Americans, that they need to watch what they say, watch what they do and that this is not a time for remarks like that," Fleischer said arrogantly in dressing down Bill Maher, the host of "Politically Incorrect," for saying that the hijackers weren't "cowards" because they were willing to give their lives to their cause.
The New York Times reported that a columnist for the Texas City Sun was fired after writing that President Bush, instead of returning to Washington on the day of attacks, was "flying around the country like a scared child, seeking refuge in his mother's bed after having a nightmare." The same happened to a columnist in Oregon, who accused Mr. Bush of having "skedaddled" in the wake of the attacks.
Clearchannel Communications suggested that its stations avoid playing a list of more than 100 songs that included John Lennon's "Imagine."
Taking Mr. Fleischer's sage advice to heart, the Daily Lobo should apologize for ignorantly publishing opinions from all sides regarding this country's response to the attacks and Professor Berthold's comments.
We should take care never to question the policies of this University, state legislators and the federal government.
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Everyone in this state who has ever laughed at or cursed Gov. Gary Johnson should take it all back.
I should apologize for indignantly asking, "That's it," following President Bush's four-minute speech the evening of the terrorist attacks and accusing him of illustrating that the tragedy truly had knocked the wind out of this country.
Such responses would be preposterous.
Let's be careful not to wrap the American flag and Constitution too snugly around ourselves, effectively smothering all they represent. Those who wield power should welcome open discussion from those they represent, not seek to quell it.
At a time when Americans are willing to vest extraordinary power in their government, questions and debate are what patriotism demands. Even the most high-minded government is not infallible.
Iliana Lim¢n
Editor in chief
