Editor,
The terrorist attack on Sept. 11 reminded us of the true value of freedom. The principle of due process of law, innocence until proven guilty and other liberties are the bulwark of that freedom. The freedom we enjoy is not to be abridged unless an independent court of law, dedicated to a government of laws and not of men, is convinced "beyond a reasonable doubt" that an alleged law violator actually is a law violator. We can say, do and think things here that would result in being face down in a sewer if we said them in Afghanistan.
But not all Americans believe in freedom. The administration at the University of New Mexico does not believe in freedom. They do not believe in the U.S. Constitution. They believe that liberty is to be betrayed at their convenience. They are looking to "vigorously pursue" disciplinary action against Professor Berthold. Why?
Professor Berthold made a bad joke about the terrorist attacks in his Western Civilization class. Dr. Berthold apologized for what he said. That is not sufficient for President William C. Gordon. Gordon wants Berthold's blood. Gordon's message to Berthold: Check with us before you make such seditious comments!
History department chairperson Dr. Margaret Jane Slaugher's office referred my inquiry to the provost's office. Associate Provost Richard Holder indicated that the possible sanctions for Berthold's actions ranged from a reprimand to dismissal. He did not offer the possibility that Berthold's statement did not constitute an offense. He said that Slaughter was handling the matter. Dr. Slaughter did not respond to my next phone inquiry.
How is Dr. Slaughter going to handle the matter? Is she going to respect the U.S. Constitution? Is she going to respect academic freedom? Is she going to respect due process of law? Is she going to assure that Berthold is presented with charges, has representation and can cross-examine witnesses under oath?
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Is there a judge independent of the prosecutor and jury?
I don't know because she ain't talking.
But President Gordon is talking. He says Berthold is getting due process. What a crock! To President Gordon, due process does not include . due process. When Dr. Slaughter does not talk, she is saying, "Screw you!" When Gordon talks, he says, "Screw you!"
But what they are really saying is, "Screw the truth, screw the U.S. Constitution, screw academic freedom, screw liberty, screw everything accept UNM public relations!" Is that what you came to college to learn?
Richard A. Zeller, Ph.D.
Statistical Consultant
New Philadelphia,Ohio
