Dear Mr. Bollinger:
I commend your courageous act of exposing the human rights violation of the Islamic Regime in Iran (IRI).... [MORE]
MJ
Nov 5, 2007 23:45
NOT A FREE SPEECH ISSUE? I am outraged with America.... I am outraged that most of America is ok with... [MORE]
AMBER
Sep 26, 2007 10:51
The community invites Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to give a view other than what mainstream media lies to the US constantly about... [MORE]
June
Sep 25, 2007 15:47
For those of you that claim to support Free Speech, where were you when the Minutemen were prevented form speaking... [MORE]
Danny
Sep 25, 2007 14:43
Mr.Bollinger's opening remarks shows his ill-manners and reminds me of 'Ugly American' feelings around the world. Couldn't he let the... [MORE]
ProudIranian
Sep 25, 2007 12:34
So now the City Council and other leaders and from city and state agencies are threatening a university for providing... [MORE]
RL
Sep 25, 2007 11:08
Yes, I was among those opposed to Bollinger's invitation to the despot of Iran. The event changed my mind. Yesterday's... [MORE]
Robert
Sep 25, 2007 10:44
Hats off to Lee Bollinger, president of Columbia university! Like many others, I was very annoyed that his school was... [MORE]
BOB WEISE
Sep 25, 2007 10:05
Why do we believe that our constitution does not protect people who are not Americans? Do we really think that... [MORE]
Branden
Sep 25, 2007 04:34
If I recalled correctly, he is elected in his country 2005 by popular vote. How much do we really know... [MORE]
A Forgetful Citizen
Sep 25, 2007 03:27
Does anyone at Columbia remember last year Mr. Ahmadinejad purged the universities in Iran of all liberal and progressive professors?... [MORE]
Chris
Sep 25, 2007 02:07
As usual, those who bleat the loudest about freedom are the most willing to jettison it when politically expedient.
Punishing Columbia... [MORE]
dadanarchist
Sep 25, 2007 01:13
Thank you for pointing out that allowing him his freedom of speech worked out in the favor of those who... [MORE]
Branden
Sep 25, 2007 05:38
My point is that he is the elected president of Iran. its the right of amaricans to disagree him but... [MORE]
Mehmood
Sep 25, 2007 00:39
Mr. Mehmood,
What's not democratic is for The Iranian President, whose name I refuse to respect or speak to impound &... [MORE]
Mike Turlej
Sep 25, 2007 11:19
How sad that these politicians equate having a "platform" with being "legitimate". The whole idea is to decide if someone... [MORE]
Carl
Sep 25, 2007 00:01
It makes me feel so secure about my freedoms when people like David Weprin, James Gennaro, and Rabbi Zev Friedman... [MORE]
Dave
Sep 24, 2007 21:10
How quickly we forget!
-Iran took 50 Americans hostage for 444 days in 1979
-Iran provided financial and military support to the... [MORE]
Leonidas
Sep 24, 2007 20:34
Listen, take a look at America's track record in supporting despots, Sadam Hussein included. I think it is quite disingenuous... [MORE]
MikeC
Sep 24, 2007 20:01
There is nothing so laughable as a politician trying to occupy moral high ground, and nothing so dangerous as a... [MORE]
Charles
Sep 24, 2007 19:55
All this furor over free speech. How quaint. Coatsworth gets excoriated for saying that it would have been proper to... [MORE]
Andy House
Sep 24, 2007 19:16
Justice, Freedom, Democracy, Rights, Free Speech are not malleable, they are not rules to be bent or broken, they are... [MORE]
Ian Watson
Sep 24, 2007 19:16
I've seen M. Ahmadinejad type people before. History tells us that some of our ancesters were very generous to the... [MORE]
Carlos
Sep 24, 2007 18:55
Whether or not we agree with what the President of Iran has to say, what disturbs me more than his... [MORE]
Stan Anderson
Sep 24, 2007 18:48
The president of the school should see a firm response to his invitation. To have extended it is outrageous, for... [MORE]
Jackson
Sep 24, 2007 18:48
The very idea that Americans fear what others have to say is enough to make me sick to my stomach.... [MORE]
Joe
Sep 24, 2007 18:13
Those of you who are upset about Irans president visit should not read or listen to his comments. Who are... [MORE]
nick
Sep 24, 2007 18:09
Readers, it's scary to see the direction where our country is heading. I have never seen so many people being... [MORE]
Wstdade
Sep 24, 2007 17:22
Someone should have quoted Mr. Twain to him,,,"tis better to remain silent and thought a fool,than to open your mouth... [MORE]
john
Sep 24, 2007 17:14
Even countries that are our "friends" hold massive protests and demonstrations when our president comes to visit.
A balanced education should... [MORE]
Tonie
Sep 24, 2007 17:06
A University president gets paid to improve the name of the institution, increase donations and grants and funding, and increase... [MORE]
Gerry Lokhande
Sep 24, 2007 17:02
Bollinger is clearly compromized by the Israeli Lobby. His behavior failed basic ethical and academic standards. [MORE]
Ziad Khoury
Dec 11, 2007 04:53
How come no one attacks the media for playing Osama Bin Laden's tapes and providing him with a forum? Sure,... [MORE]
Craig
Sep 24, 2007 16:59
Bollinger should be fired and Ahmajenicide should be arrested and summarily executed. I hope those who support this publicity stunt... [MORE]
James M. Baker
Sep 24, 2007 16:44
I am a fervent democrat and an alum of Columbia, and I will never, ever vote for any of these... [MORE]
my2000
Sep 24, 2007 16:24
Thanks alot, president Bollinger, for reducing the worth of my Columbia degree by being such a dolt and sacrificing the... [MORE]
Steve Robeson
Sep 24, 2007 16:25
Effect, more like... I don't think something can impact a noun. [MORE]
Sean
Sep 24, 2007 16:12
Yes, we have freedom of speech here as guaranteed by our first amendment. With that freedom comes responsiblity not to... [MORE]
Robert
Sep 24, 2007 15:55
We as a nation will ultimately lose the war on terror as long as these intellectual elitists continue to hold... [MORE]
Heather
Sep 24, 2007 16:56
Why are you people so hell bent on your impression this man is out to destroy the world? Do you... [MORE]
MT
Sep 25, 2007 00:44
Why all the hate and anger towards someone who had nothing to do with the war in Iraq or the... [MORE]
Rowdy
Sep 24, 2007 15:48
Great sentence structure! "How?" A fully developed sentence? Why? Only stupid people make stupid comments like this one. A famous... [MORE]
Bill
Sep 24, 2007 17:06
I agree with you 100% While I was reading up on this, I was shocked by the behavior distributed from... [MORE]
cheyenne nicholson
Sep 24, 2007 19:04
It's actions like this taken by Mr. Bollinger that allow the US to have some form of credibility when preaching... [MORE]
Dan
Sep 24, 2007 15:43
Dan, freedom of speech and civil liberties are enjoyed in many countries of the world. America may have once been... [MORE]
David mcCaig
Sep 25, 2007 01:49
Since the government is not restricting the right of US citizens to speak their mind about Iran, Ahmadinejad, etc. then... [MORE]
JeanE
Sep 24, 2007 15:24
Such disgrace should not come to columbia university. I pity the students and teachers who suffer at the hands of... [MORE]
TEP
Sep 24, 2007 15:13
hey TEP--the administrator should get a job at FOX ??? gimme a break [MORE]
hugh
Sep 24, 2007 17:09
Time after time the sheep of this Great nation have rejected truth rather buying in to deception, evasion, or out-and-out... [MORE]
mack
Oct 3, 2007 21:30
Chess was invented in Iran/Persia. The Iranian president appears to be an excellent player. We are his pawns. He is... [MORE]
karin
Sep 24, 2007 15:07
It's a sad occasion to see all this hate and anger come from the very people who "claim" to have... [MORE]
AJM
Sep 24, 2007 22:16
These legislators are no better than the mullahs and ayatolahs in Iran with the threats, and censorship of Columbia.
Keep up... [MORE]
PDC
Sep 24, 2007 14:48
It would be interesting to have a reliable accounting firm to review all financial records of those involved in the... [MORE]
Ted Doke
Sep 24, 2007 14:46
Agreed. Transparency is the only way to understand the intentions behind these kind of decisions. [MORE]
Lance Browning Pitman
Sep 24, 2007 14:54
... would be to know who´s behind those who are against Columbia, those who are threatening and boycotting, those who... [MORE]
Stu
Sep 24, 2007 16:31
It used to be not so long ago we, the taxpaying public citzens, would see a criminal with stripes and... [MORE]
Mom of college age child
Sep 24, 2007 20:57
I would be more interested to know who is supporting who's election campaigns and
if they aren't the same people who... [MORE]
Freeman
Sep 26, 2007 08:06
A living Dichotomy : he starts off, in his first, most vital moments in front of an intelligent audience, with... [MORE]
Lise D'Aristide
Sep 24, 2007 14:42
The media spins and spins. It's not so much a question of "if" certain things where said by one person... [MORE]
Lance Browning Pitman
Sep 24, 2007 14:38
That makes complete sense . . . when you only hear what you want to hear and not the totality... [MORE]
LL in La.
Sep 24, 2007 15:04
Mr. Pittman think that by listening to what the Iranian President says that he is going to unfiltered information? Not... [MORE]
John Schuh
Sep 24, 2007 19:41
now this statement is from someone with good logic! [MORE]
Jeff
Sep 24, 2007 22:26
Freedom of speech is not free. It comes with the price of sacrifice. [MORE]
Marc M
Sep 24, 2007 14:17
i think my position on this is entirely dependent on Mr. Bollinger's questions. I would argue that this is what... [MORE]
chris
Sep 24, 2007 14:05
as they describe themselves at this university, the academia, and act as if their the elite. perhaps we are smarter... [MORE]
lea testyn
Sep 24, 2007 14:03
Only the Government is banned from limiting speech...private entities can limit any speech they choose! Columbia is a private institution!... [MORE]
Jarhead
Sep 24, 2007 13:58
for everyone using the free speech card. I thought that free speech was guaranteed to all americans in one manner... [MORE]
christian
Sep 24, 2007 13:53
What a bunch of small-minded haters in the state legislature and that idiot Hunter in Congress. Why are they so... [MORE]
Avvorio
Sep 24, 2007 13:52
If I thought he would really lay things on the line, I'd listen to what he has to say if... [MORE]
Lori
Sep 24, 2007 13:40
how would u know that you wouldnt believe anything he says. u have been brainwashed by the US media. Why... [MORE]
Cheyenne Nicholson
Sep 24, 2007 19:07
You didn't hear him, but you know what is his views, what he will tell
and you don't believe him. Wow,... [MORE]
NotAmerican
Sep 25, 2007 07:01
Those who say that we are fools in America are right. Were Hitler killed in the 1930s as he should... [MORE]
Victor Galindo
Sep 24, 2007 13:38
How many people died in south America? In Asia? In eastern and central Europe??? The non American count is horrendous,... [MORE]
Ian Watson
Sep 24, 2007 15:40
From your diatribe I'm assuming you are from the United Kingdom or Western Europe. You should thank your lucky stars... [MORE]
L Guertin
Sep 24, 2007 17:46
We have to allow someone who is obviously against us and our standards into our country because of the UN?... [MORE]
Just take a look at this hypocrisy... Adolf Hitler was financed into power by a cabal of European and American... [MORE]
Ian Watson
Sep 24, 2007 13:34
It's sad to see America dying,(inside an out). Since the 1980's, 911, education lacking population, the destuction of the middle... [MORE]
James Salvatore
Sep 24, 2007 13:35
Few years ago Columbia had an arabist professer that I understand made life difficult for Jewish students.Columbia with this act... [MORE]
ric
Sep 24, 2007 13:15
Let him speak. America should not, and I believe does not, fear words spoken by some fanatical leader of sheep.... [MORE]
shinea
Sep 24, 2007 13:11
Allowing Ahmadinejad an American forum in which to spew his hatemongering talk is just wrong, wrong, wrong. Columbia University should... [MORE]
LM
Sep 24, 2007 13:02
Columbia - free speech is not the issue since actions speak louder than words. Nothing Monkey Boy says at Columbia... [MORE]
Dave
Sep 24, 2007 13:00
As I read this article I was alarmed at the fear that people like Sheldon Silver and Councilman Weprin have... [MORE]
Geezer Batflabe
Sep 24, 2007 12:50
It look as if we are afriad that the Iranian guy will spread rumors and play some kind of voodoo... [MORE]
John
Sep 24, 2007 12:50
Not to say I support everything or anything that Ahmadinejad says, but I think this is a great oppportunity for... [MORE]
Moo
Sep 24, 2007 12:47
I think everyone looks at Ahmadinejad's forum as some sort of "Indoctrination". Columbia University is going to get his views... [MORE]
dan
Sep 24, 2007 12:47
When Cheney spoke at a BYU commencement ceremony, public protest or dissention was not allowed.Ahmadinejad is sounding quite reasonable these... [MORE]
K. Mansfield
Sep 24, 2007 12:43
I am astounded at the criticism of Columbia for permitting the President of Iran to speak at its campus. Universities... [MORE]
George
Sep 24, 2007 12:42
It's infuriating that we choose to close our eyes and ears to other people's opinions. The problem in this country... [MORE]
Sam Layssi
Sep 24, 2007 12:41
Let him speak, and the persons asking the questions should let him know that they do not agree with his... [MORE]
Dan
Sep 24, 2007 12:38
To read some of these comments it is clear the University has had great influence on many of its students.... [MORE]
James
Sep 24, 2007 12:33
What is this country coming to that we, once one of the strongest nations in the world, where we were... [MORE]
Susie
Sep 24, 2007 12:30
Wow, are we all ready to start burning books? Whats all the fuss about. Are you afraid you might really... [MORE]
Nick
Sep 24, 2007 12:28
This enemy within is publicly laughing at us and saying that not only will you be forced to pay for... [MORE]
ted zas
Sep 24, 2007 12:23
This pillar of humanity needs the Columbia seal on his distinguished resume--- what a University!! [MORE]
Bob
Sep 24, 2007 12:20
We allow Mr. Bush freedom of speech even after He lied and started an illegal war with a country that... [MORE]
Fred John jr
Sep 24, 2007 12:18
This has nothing to do with hate mongering. If what Ahmadinejad has to say is so repugnant, allowing him to... [MORE]
Eda Celis
Sep 24, 2007 12:15
Our rights of free speech are afforded only by our system of Govt, that has been granted by our special... [MORE]
Fernandez
Sep 24, 2007 12:14
Ahmadinejad is not Hitler - at least not yet. Suppose Hitler had wanted to speak at Columbia in 1943, when... [MORE]
Scott Baker
Sep 24, 2007 12:13
Do we as a Nation have the obligation to extend the Right to free speech to all people on earth... [MORE]
Slippery Slope
Sep 24, 2007 12:13
Iran was the US and west best friend until the pro-Israel and anti-Muslim policy ruled the west mindset. Ahmadejad is... [MORE]
Masyus
Sep 24, 2007 12:11
The University believes in free speech. I challenge them on that, when they booed the Minutemen off the stage last... [MORE]
Vicki
Sep 24, 2007 12:07
Im am proud to be an American citizen, however, i think everyone who lives in this country is blind and... [MORE]
Cruz
Sep 24, 2007 12:25
"this regime occupying Jerusalem (een rezhim-e eshghalgar-e qods) must [vanish from] the page of time (bayad az safheh-ye ruzgar mahv... [MORE]
Ian Watson
Sep 24, 2007 13:41
Hey moron,
if you are intending to suggest that their is a media bias in favor ofthe US government by the... [MORE]
John
Sep 24, 2007 17:18
Thank goodness this Iranian dictator will not be afforded the benefit of returning to Iran with video footage of his... [MORE]
Terry Webb
Sep 25, 2007 21:39
His free speech rights are not at issue. Columbia is only a place to speak. He's got lots of others,... [MORE]
Free Speech
Sep 24, 2007 11:55
Its funny how Free Speech is used as the reason to welcome the dictator, Ahmadinejad, with open arms, but the... [MORE]
Diane
Sep 24, 2007 11:52
As a "hard-core conservative" I rabidly defend the right of free speech and often take criticism for for my position... [MORE]
LeftCoastCurmudgeon
Sep 24, 2007 11:49
I understand that he may travel to, and address the United Nations. However, it is also my understanding that we... [MORE]
Bill McDonald
Sep 24, 2007 11:47
If just once the people of america could stop and think outside the box, and give this guy a chance... [MORE]
Jegggo
Sep 24, 2007 12:13
It is with disgust and dismay that I condemn Columbia for its decision. Are they located in Morningside heights or... [MORE]
Paul
Sep 24, 2007 12:29
Allowing Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to speak at Columbia has no value. True, free speech should be upheld. But we... [MORE]
Bill
Sep 24, 2007 11:39
Punish those who allow him to speak, and you prove that we DO NOT ALLOW FREE SPEECH, any more than... [MORE]
I must be a fool
Sep 24, 2007 13:28
Why would rational human beings, given a choice, choose to attack their neighbors rather than live together in peace? More... [MORE]
Ziad Khoury
Dec 11, 2007 12:59
As an alumnus of Columbia, I have permanently cancelled all plans for future donation to University coffers. They will never... [MORE]
I think our country's definition of free speech is turned a bit upside down. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who advocates killing all... [MORE]
Sue Parker
Sep 24, 2007 19:42
Just because you have the right to say anything you want, doesn't mean I won't kick you in the behind... [MORE]
Codeman
Sep 24, 2007 11:34
Higher education is supposed to expand our thinking and broaden our horizons to improve our view points. By restricting, or... [MORE]
Ron Mann
Sep 24, 2007 11:32
For those of you who believe that Ahmadinejad should have his freedom of speech where were you when it was... [MORE]
Danny Eller
Sep 24, 2007 12:16
When the Military people are welcommed on campus, when the Minutemen hecklers are shouted down by the other students, then... [MORE]
Elliott Althouse
Sep 24, 2007 13:03
Well, our politicians are at it again. They profess free speech but use blackmail to change Columbia's position on letting... [MORE]
martykmunoz
Sep 24, 2007 14:24
I believe we need to censor those who use our freedoms against us for furthering their PROPOGANDA machine! We must... [MORE]
karin
Sep 24, 2007 15:02
Our free speech laws are for the people of the United States, not for people that live else where! We... [MORE]
gmaness
Sep 24, 2007 15:20
Columbia has a right to say yes or no to anyone requesting an opportunity of speaking to the university's students... [MORE]
Mike Hogan
Sep 24, 2007 11:23
Ahmadinejad does not have the same rights protected by the First Amendment as a US citizen. As stated in the... [MORE]
B. Smith
Sep 24, 2007 11:22
The First Amendment only prevents the government from stifling free speech. It does not "entitle" anyone to a public forum... [MORE]
Paul Silhan
Sep 24, 2007 11:36
You are SO correct. It IS our freedom of speech, he has no legal or moral justification to USE it.
Thanks... [MORE]
Jody King
Sep 24, 2007 11:48
Allowing Ahmadinejad to speak on campus may broaden the minds of the stdents. The problem is what it does to... [MORE]
Dick Sohn
Sep 24, 2007 12:50
I always had an impression that the Americans believe in freedom of speech (and action) ONLY FOR THEMSELF. The rest... [MORE]
NotAmerican
Sep 25, 2007 06:25
always remember that people ruled by religion make their own rules. and will say and do what they can and... [MORE]
max bernstein
Nov 26, 2007 08:53
I've been reading about the brouhaha over Almadnejad's speaking at Columbia with great interest. It seems all with any bit... [MORE]
Ed Dunne
Sep 24, 2007 11:21
I understand those who says there's nothing wrong with allowing the President of Iran to speak with Columbia students. There... [MORE]
Don
Sep 24, 2007 11:20
The best way to show disagreement with Columbia University's decision to allow Mr. Ahmadinejad to speak if for no one... [MORE]
Marianna Jayson
Sep 24, 2007 11:17
Mr. Ahmadinejad is not an American, thus he doesn't qualify to receive constitutional protection. This first amendment stuff doesn't apply... [MORE]
Jim Rodgers
Sep 24, 2007 11:16
I don't recall heightened security provided for other speakers the student body at Columbia considered controversial . In fact few... [MORE]
MNC
Sep 24, 2007 11:15
Universities used to be castles for academic freedoms and liberty. Free speech in the first amendment incudes even shocking ideas... [MORE]
Y Abu Malik
Sep 24, 2007 12:26
Since when did my America become so frightened of a man being allowed to speak his opinion? Let him be... [MORE]
RonnieG
Sep 24, 2007 11:10
No one among Iran's citizens have freedom of speech - and are unlikely to have it as long as Ahmadinejad... [MORE]
Mario G
Sep 24, 2007 11:04
Yale University just lost a case wherin they would not allow the military on campus because of Clintons dont ask... [MORE]
joan
Sep 24, 2007 13:17
Last time i checked, i have not heard him speak in person, someone else has translated his words.
People disagree all... [MORE]
LD
Sep 24, 2007 11:00
The Issue is Truth
The most important function that the media can do for us is define what is fact and... [MORE]
Martin Gold
Sep 24, 2007 11:00
Did we ever consider that it is exactly this inability of the populace to listen to ideals different than our... [MORE]
Adam
Sep 24, 2007 10:54
I totally agree with you... When Columbia is willing to listen to diverse opinions your premise is accurate. But Adam... [MORE]
DaveS
Sep 24, 2007 11:54
I wonder if the University will permit the same level of protest and disruption it allowed when Gilchrist of the... [MORE]
joe
Sep 24, 2007 10:53
So we shouldn't be the better nation? We should deny him the ability to speak at this forum and to... [MORE]
Mike
Sep 24, 2007 10:51
Whether they care to hear his speach and responses or not, did Columbia ever consider the immense propaganda value and... [MORE]
Mike
Sep 24, 2007 10:46
Ahmadinejad controls the rights of free speech and expression in Iran and we criticize him. Them our leaders and public... [MORE]
Avery
Sep 24, 2007 10:45
If we had a leader in New York----this would not be allowed. [MORE]
Leon Moore
Sep 24, 2007 12:57
If this was about was about free speech the ROTC and the Minutemen would have a forum at Columbia. They... [MORE]
Dan Dismuke
Sep 24, 2007 10:39
This university doesn't have a responsibility to allow equal access to the ROTC. They are already represented, and we know... [MORE]
K. Mansfield
Sep 24, 2007 13:08
The fact of the matter is, he was elected by his own people, which makes his status legitimate. Even if... [MORE]
EMR 2044
Sep 24, 2007 10:33
Columbia has made a choice. The choice to legitimize a sponsor of killing American Solders. Although I firmly disagree that... [MORE]
Rickie
Sep 24, 2007 11:25
It's better to judge a man in person. I say bring him on! Do you fear what he has to... [MORE]
Not afraid of a little free speech
Sep 24, 2007 10:29
I have a solution to the entire problem. If the 600 invited ticket holders show up and tear their ticket... [MORE]
stonebridge
Sep 24, 2007 10:20
Wow, the Constitution has really gone out the window this time!
I agree with Columbia's stance. I think that giving the... [MORE]
Keith
Sep 24, 2007 10:16
If I understand correctly, they not only have banned ROTC, but have refused to allow anti-illegal immigration speakers from their... [MORE]
Genny
Sep 24, 2007 10:11
Inviting the president of Iran is a free speach issue worth standing up to protests says Columbia. Why then did... [MORE]
Doug
Sep 24, 2007 10:09
I'm waiting to hear Mr. Bollinger invite Dick Cheney, or Margaret Thatcher, or Zarkozy, or Netanyahu, or any other conservative... [MORE]
rtodom
Sep 24, 2007 12:11
If he wants "our" freedom of speech, give it to him. When he starts speaking, I suggest everyone who is... [MORE]
Tim L
Sep 24, 2007 10:10
Has Columbia vetted the simultaneous translator (interpretor)? My experience has been that the interpretor is aided by a script ,... [MORE]
Phillip Lloyd
Sep 24, 2007 10:09
I think much of Ahmadinejads views .The people would agree with ,and the oppostion are afraid of that,so the want... [MORE]
ed marshall
Sep 24, 2007 10:09
Strictly speaking, we are still at war with Iran, and thusly, we should arrest him for crimes against humanity for... [MORE]
Dwayne
Sep 24, 2007 10:03
Whether we like it or not, he is a world leader that was voted into power, and if columbia wants... [MORE]
A Romero
Sep 24, 2007 09:59
I went to Columbia and support the decision, and I would not characterize my defense of the decision with the... [MORE]
Pete
Sep 24, 2007 09:56
This, my friends, is liberalism on parade. The ACLU must be proud. In my opinion, I feel that the dean... [MORE]
John
Sep 24, 2007 09:42
The Iranian terrorist is free to yap all he wants in the US but he is not free to yap... [MORE]
Sara
Sep 24, 2007 09:39
While I have utter disgust for Mr Ahmadinejad, I believe that the university has every right to invite whomever they... [MORE]
Brian Perez
Sep 24, 2007 09:38
Here's my free speech. Stop all $400 million of taxpayer money from going annually to Columbia. Resign Bollinger and immoral... [MORE]
A
Sep 24, 2007 09:37
Columbia is perfectly happy to let a person like Ahmadimejad speak, but it won't let the leader of the Minuteman... [MORE]
J. B.
Sep 24, 2007 09:36
It is a shame that Columbia University has proudly rolled out the red carpet for evil. Withdraw all federal tax-payer... [MORE]
Ann S.
Sep 24, 2007 09:25
... this is how people destroy their own careers and take down their employer with them! [MORE]
Matt
Sep 24, 2007 09:25
Oh grow up people. You remind me of 4th graders running around with their fingers shoved in their ears going... [MORE]
Mike
Sep 24, 2007 09:23
America was once know as the Home of the Brave.. After seeing an invitation by a once proud university named... [MORE]
Lyle
Sep 24, 2007 09:21
I thank Jesus and all that is holy in Heaven that Columbia allowed The Iranian President to come speak. It... [MORE]
Beverins
Sep 24, 2007 09:21
The UN sits on international property, not part of the U.S.. As an avowed enemy of the U.S. , he... [MORE]
Richard McLean
Sep 24, 2007 09:21
Is our country so fragile that the talk of any one man, even a madman, would harm it? The best... [MORE]
andrew b
Sep 24, 2007 09:19
The right to freedom of speech is allowed by our fore fathers.violations:
ROTC not allowed on Columbia Campus: That is correct... [MORE]
tony
Sep 24, 2007 09:15
I read your comment: i.e. Note: Comments are screened, and in some cases edited, before posting. We reserve the right... [MORE]
George
Sep 24, 2007 09:16
The city has been bending over backwards to assist Columbia as it takes over swaths of Harlem to expand its... [MORE]
RJ
Sep 24, 2007 09:15
Ahmadinejad is not a citizen of the U.S., therefore is not entitled to our Constitutional rights. Furthermore, I am in... [MORE]
C
Sep 24, 2007 09:13
There is SELECTED speech at Columbia - I might feel differently had the Minuteman been given the same rights to... [MORE]
Jackie Domeneicis
Sep 24, 2007 09:10
Columbia has lost all credibility, in my opinion. Mr. Bolinger can argue all he wants for dialogue, in the words... [MORE]
Cindy
Sep 24, 2007 09:09
Last time I checked Freedom of Speech is guaranteed to US citizens, not Iranian Presidents. [MORE]
Max
Sep 24, 2007 09:07
It's all very nice to talk about how all viewpoints should be heard--but from an institution that bans ROTC, and... [MORE]
Joseph Dobrian
Sep 24, 2007 09:05
It's about time someone introduced these "educators" to the real world. These lifetime students, who have probably never had a... [MORE]
Jeff
Sep 24, 2007 09:04
This is the how "elites" try to show their "toughness." (Heaven knows they'd never support, much less pick up arms... [MORE]
Martin
Sep 24, 2007 09:00
You ban ROTC, then allow this THUG to speak. He should not even be allowed to step on our soil... [MORE]
JIM
Sep 24, 2007 08:57
If he shows up everyone in the audience should stand, turn their back to him, and give him the one... [MORE]
Barry
Sep 24, 2007 08:58
Who cares about the kids educations. Let's hurt them all for one man's choice.
... Yet more of the same brilliance... [MORE]
Q-Ball McKenzie
Sep 24, 2007 08:50
Both Coatsworth and Bollinger are narcissistic fools. Single-handily they have destroyed the reputation of one of the cornerstones of American... [MORE]
John Crawford
Sep 24, 2007 08:46
Columbia U allowed the minute men to be run off campus but will undoubtable better protect the "free speech rights"... [MORE]
Sam Rizzo
Sep 24, 2007 08:46
...if he calls for stronger border protection between the United States and Mexico, otherwise he should be just fine on... [MORE]
dave from tallahassee
Sep 24, 2007 08:46
I presume Columbia thinks of itself as quite prestigious and elite.....so they invite a complete thug who wants to destroy... [MORE]
Mary Richey
Sep 24, 2007 08:44
that so far there has not been anyone who has approved of this character and his forum. Normally there is... [MORE]
B. Bernhart
Sep 24, 2007 08:32
Are we a democracy or not? Don't we want to hear both sides of the story or not? For the... [MORE]
tunes
Sep 24, 2007 08:28
Much as with the Dixie Chicks, nobody is jailing someone for speaking, but that doesn't mean their won't be public... [MORE]
Bob
Sep 24, 2007 08:19
I think his visit is wonderful. It's one of the few remaining signs that the US was founded as a... [MORE]
a pro-Israel, anti-zionist
Sep 24, 2007 08:20
Since Columbia is a private university they may invite whomever they wish. BUT, since the taxpayers are under no particular... [MORE]
Dick Tuck
Sep 24, 2007 08:17
I only support the speech because it's going to be broadcast in Iran, where the Iranian people can hear Americans... [MORE]
renton
Sep 24, 2007 08:16
Columbia University is a sad place. Pitiful elitest looking at down upon their campus of young robots from Ivory towers.... [MORE]
Kelly collins
Sep 24, 2007 08:16
......."Hold your friends close, but hold your enemies closer." [MORE]
D Cofffee
Sep 24, 2007 08:14
It is fantastic that Columbia has the guts to invite Ahmadinejad speak. I am afraid our Fox news soaked airwaves... [MORE]
S DeVo
Sep 24, 2007 08:13
Stick to your guns Fred. He's free to talk and anyone's free to listen. I just don't have to fund... [MORE]
Chuck
Sep 24, 2007 08:11
It's about time people in New York or associated with this university do something tangible to stop this national outrage!
I... [MORE]
karen anderson
Sep 24, 2007 08:10
Not at all. This is liberal elitism at it's best. [MORE]
Terry Honeycutt
Sep 24, 2007 08:03
Yes, stop all public funding to Columbia University who is taking a stance against the USA by inviting a national... [MORE]
Brenda Starr
Sep 24, 2007 08:00
Nice that they think they're so big in providing a "open" forum for debate with speech people consider offensive and... [MORE]
Jenny Bea
Sep 24, 2007 07:55
Columbia University may have been infiltrated by a special forces team of ignorance. They appear to be hugely stupid at... [MORE]
El Duane Whatley
Sep 24, 2007 07:34
He that would make his own liberty secure, must guard even his enemy from oppression; for if he violates this... [MORE]
Steve
Sep 24, 2007 07:33
This news story below just says it all about the leaders of Iran. Columbia's Dean is acting like a lawyer... [MORE]
Jowand
Sep 24, 2007 07:33
Although we have freedom of speech in this country, we DON'T have give people a forum to be heard. Columbia... [MORE]
Marilyn Chapman
Sep 24, 2007 07:06
To throttle the open speech of the Iranian leader is simply for us to give up our reverence for free... [MORE]
Robert
Sep 24, 2007 06:58
The right to free speech does not guarantee the right to "be heard." We have the right to say what... [MORE]
Tom McGrath
Sep 24, 2007 07:17
If Columbia was so concerned with freedom as you mentioned they wouldnt be banning ROTC.
Give me a break. [MORE]
S
Sep 24, 2007 07:23
I would propose that Columbia send its Dean to Iran so he can be educated on free speech . Perhaps... [MORE]
Darrell
Sep 24, 2007 07:46
I agree with the concept of Free Speech, but I also feel that the tax payer's money, many who have... [MORE]
R.P. Foster
Sep 24, 2007 08:03
such as freedom of speech extended to visiting foreign so-called dignitaries. Too bad so many have forgotten (or worse still,... [MORE]
James Miller
Sep 24, 2007 08:07
This monster gets on TV and says whatever he wants frequently, so his freedom of speech is hardly being compromised.
The... [MORE]
peter drang
Sep 24, 2007 08:11
Freedom of Speech is extended to all Americans.. It is written in the United States Constitution.. This is not the... [MORE]
JB
Sep 24, 2007 08:54
Sir: I am confused by what I see as your definition of free speech. If I understand you correctly,... [MORE]
Steve
Sep 24, 2007 08:59
The Iranian leader is not a citizen of the United States an therefore has no Constitional protections under our Bill... [MORE]
Ric
Sep 24, 2007 09:11
Free speech is when the government sanctions speech, it is not applicable at private institutions.
GET A CLUE. [MORE]
Captain D
Sep 24, 2007 09:15
Free speech is in the US Constitution. The clause prohibits the government from regulating the speech of US CITIZENS. Ahmadinejad... [MORE]
Michael
Sep 24, 2007 09:24
Is AhmaddinJihad a citizen to whom OUR freedoms are extended and protected? This assertion is as absurd as those regarding... [MORE]
porcine delight
Sep 24, 2007 09:39
For everyone who is concerned about free speech, let him give a news conference at the airport. We don't have... [MORE]
Danny H
Sep 24, 2007 09:39
Sure, he doesn't have a right to be heard.
But doesn't Columbia University have a right to free speech? Do they... [MORE]
MN
Sep 24, 2007 09:43
My Iranian friends tell me that much of Iran is conflicted over Ahmadinejad. They are angry over his failure to... [MORE]
Delaplane
Sep 24, 2007 09:44
The president of Iran may have ideas which are contrary to those of many americans yet isnt the idea of... [MORE]
Oliver Tighe
Sep 24, 2007 10:08
Not a free speech issue? The more you and others try to silence him, the more you sound LIKE him.... [MORE]
BubbleBoy
Sep 24, 2007 10:33
As I read these comments I am reminded that there are two things that will go a long way to... [MORE]
Dan
Sep 24, 2007 10:45
As an American living in the ME I am totally ashamed that Iran and it's people are being unfairly demonized... [MORE]
Sally
Sep 24, 2007 15:19
My straight A daughter had an interest in attending Columbia who also as a top ballet student, had an adjunct... [MORE]
Fred
Sep 24, 2007 06:51
The financial threats against this university will ony hurt students who need financial help to attend. [MORE]
Bob
Sep 24, 2007 08:17
Of course Ahmadinejad doesn't have "the right" to speak if he feels like it. Meaning, clearly he could not "demand"... [MORE]
that we stopped going overboard in this country and come to our senses! [MORE]
ricardo maxwell
Sep 24, 2007 06:38
I would like to thank Speaker Silver for his boldness in speaking against Columbia Universities speaking invitation to Mahmoud Ahmadinejad [MORE]
J. Kobylka
Sep 24, 2007 06:23
Guess what, Robert, if you were in his country your freedom don't exist. Also, having the freedom of speech does... [MORE]
Clay
Sep 24, 2007 07:15
The state need to pull the plug quickly on Columbia's funds. This is not about Freedom of speach, this is... [MORE]
Bernard
Sep 24, 2007 07:42
If I directed a racial slur at a minority (or protected class) Columbia student, it's likely that I would find... [MORE]
Butchsnot Prebbie
Sep 24, 2007 08:07
I think Congress should be as courageous as Silver and deny Columbia [MORE]
Robert Lo Dolce
Sep 24, 2007 08:17
I watched 60 min last night. The kindest thing I can say for him is he has nothing to say.... [MORE]
Richard
Sep 24, 2007 08:38
It is clear now, that such a position by the institution, on insisting this enemy of freedom around the world,... [MORE]
anonyous
Sep 24, 2007 08:37
Let's see wasn't Columbia where the Minute Men were rushed by campus rough necks not being allowed to make there... [MORE]
Roger Krell
Sep 24, 2007 09:11
Free speach is for American citizens. Shame on you Columbia! My guess is the competition to get into NYU just... [MORE]
George
Sep 24, 2007 09:13
His ideas must be very powerful since so many are afraid and want to censor him so other's don't hear... [MORE]
rc
Sep 24, 2007 09:19
I have one question. What we have become? It seems to me that we need ‘to hear him ‘ for... [MORE]
dmk2000
Sep 24, 2007 11:53
Please give it a rest. Silver is a clown and a coward. Yeah, the state and the city should threaten... [MORE]
John
Sep 24, 2007 13:12
I agree with Columbia, it would be very interesting to see first hand what are the real motives driving this... [MORE]
Maria
Sep 24, 2007 06:17
Columbia is willing to allow anyone to speak no matter how odious their views are? How abuot David Duke or... [MORE]
Kyrux
Sep 24, 2007 05:48
How can students of Columbia U. manage to ask pertinent questions of this Iranian proponent of terrorism when most students... [MORE]
Mary A. Jackson
Sep 24, 2007 05:47
Those of us with a decade or three-long admiration for the brawl of assertions, perspectives and opinions that passes for... [MORE]
Jon
Sep 24, 2007 05:35
It disgust's me that in our own country we can be so pathetic to allow this man the freedom to... [MORE]
Jon Dame
Sep 24, 2007 05:17
It is perfectly acceptable, and desirable, to go to Columbia today to protest the school's rolling out the red carpet... [MORE]
Dan
Sep 24, 2007 04:51
What happned to that saying 'I might not like what you say but I'll die defending your right to say... [MORE]
Scott
Sep 24, 2007 04:43
The threats against Columbia University are threats against freedom and common sense.
We need to hear the Iranian side of the... [MORE]
Bob Reynolds
Sep 24, 2007 04:36
I find it so ironic that the American public (though I shouldn't be generalizing) is outraged by one man who... [MORE]
Said
Sep 24, 2007 04:36
For the legislature to withold funds over speech it does not like is contrary to the very esscense of the... [MORE]
lars nilsson
Sep 24, 2007 04:32
YES!, YES!, YES! The Legislatures should ACT PROMPTLY to cut ( or suspend ) any State or Local Taxpayer Funding... [MORE]
Wes
Sep 24, 2007 04:31
It boggles the mind because the liberal media and so called academic intelligentsia are the first one's who's rights and... [MORE]
Shadowfax
Sep 24, 2007 03:41
Columbia will benefit from the publicity and it will help them attract the type of students and donors that share... [MORE]
Steve
Sep 24, 2007 03:34
What is going on? Why pressure? Is dear old Bush affraid that American people might see Ahmedinejad as human being.... [MORE]
Lara
Sep 24, 2007 03:24
Excuse me, but the USA has always sponsered dictatorships of which I am not going to go into details already... [MORE]
Crom
Sep 24, 2007 03:24
Ahmadinejad is a terrorist and New Yorker should arrest him. Columbia University and its president Mr. Bollinger have lost their... [MORE]
Alex
Sep 24, 2007 03:20
You see where Lee Bollinger said that Columbia's commitment to scholarship requires the school to directly confront offensive ideas. Well,... [MORE]
Kurtiss
Sep 24, 2007 03:18
I am really impressed with the bold and courageous decision of the Columbia school to allow the respected President of... [MORE]
M Junaid Khan
Sep 24, 2007 03:16
Blackwater smuggling guns to terrorists, who in turn kill Americans That sounds alot like terrorrism.They kill Iraqis like they own... [MORE]
E Rodgers
Sep 24, 2007 03:12
Columbia University is trying to paint itself as a beacon of freedom of speech and opportunity by their move to... [MORE]
Bosun
Sep 24, 2007 02:44
you know I have read over many articles online about this war and what our country is doing vs. what... [MORE]
Justin
Sep 24, 2007 02:39
I do not understand why people so strongly object to hearing the views of the "opposition". No one is welcoming... [MORE]
Rick Barrett
Sep 24, 2007 02:31
If they really wanted to confront his ideas, Bollinger would leave Columbia's comfortable confines and try to ask his probing... [MORE]
AmericanMark
Sep 24, 2007 02:03
Mr. Bollinger's idea of "create programming for academic purposes" by inviting a sponser of terrorism and an enemy of the... [MORE]
Leopold Lacrimosa
Sep 24, 2007 01:56
Although I personally oppose the apearance of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad at Columbia University, under our Consitiution, the First Admendment guarenties the... [MORE]
Dave Berthiaume
Sep 24, 2007 01:39
Let the man speak. Don't we usually seek diplomacy before war? More New York strong arm. [MORE]
Marty
Sep 24, 2007 01:33
It is about time we as Americans stand up for what is right. We all came together as a nation... [MORE]
Greg Baziuk
Sep 24, 2007 01:27
Mr. Silver said."He's clearly responsible for the deaths of Americans both in Iraq and elsewhere...." The man who is most... [MORE]
Owen Goldsmith
Sep 24, 2007 01:24
It amazes me how both the state and city officials are so adament about their position on a Jewish cause.... [MORE]
Jose
Sep 24, 2007 01:20
My grandmother told me long ago never to trust a believer in Islam. The reason she gave was that their... [MORE]
Martin D Miasserian
Sep 24, 2007 00:43
Columbia's invitation to this man is a slap in the faceof every American. I cannot accept the reasoning that it... [MORE]
Lehman
Sep 24, 2007 00:42
If Columbia wants to give Freedom of Speech to Hitler and his ilk, let it pay for it. NY or... [MORE]
