The Observer, February 24, 2006
Volume XXXVIII, Issue 18
Free Speech Zone: Belafonte talk a memorial to freedom of speech
To the Editor:
Students will have a rare opportunity to be in the presence of an individual who witnessed our nation's character in its darkest hours, and has continually fought to make a difference. Today, Harry Belafonte is still making a difference, and for those who choose to be present this coming Tuesday, you will see him use our school as a platform to do so.
I am responsible for bringing Harry Belafonte to our campus, and this is a response to the letter to the editor in last month's Observer [Jan. 27, 2006] entitled, "Guest speakers should be chosen responsibly." I am shocked that someone would attempt to turn students away from an American hero, and attack a speaker of Belafonte's magnitude on our campus.
I would like to quote a man who knows Belafonte personally, my grandfather, former Congressman Louis Stokes, a Case alumnus, and friend of Belafonte. "Harry Belafonte is a man who not only has been acclaimed throughout this country as one of America's greatest entertainers, but one who is willing to sacrifice his career in order to march with Dr. King while facing the worst forms of brutality known to mankind in order to rid this nation of discrimination, racism, and segregation. This is a man who faced police dogs, hoses, and even went to jail with Dr. King. His speech is predicated upon events and circumstances upon which none of us have the right to deny him the opportunity to speak to the students on this campus. We cannot hide our head in the sand under the misguided interpretation that these problems do not exist in our country today."
In the letter, the author mentioned they would "have no problem" with liberal speakers such as Jerry Springer or Leonardo DiCaprio speaking at our campus. Who is he to determine those liberal speakers that are OK, and those who are not? I apologize that you will miss out on seeing another talk show host who is renowned for refereeing fights between deranged lovers. However, this hasn't helped the lives of Americans in the smallest proportion. Luckily, despite "irresponsibility" on my part, there has been an overwhelming demand for tickets for this event. I have received phone calls from schools nationwide attempting to gain the contact information for Mr. Belafonte. People are interested, and although he might not share your views, I urge you to exercise your right to free speech and come to the event this coming Tuesday.
Eric Hammond
Undergraduate Student
