[Cross posted from www.hiramhover.typepad.com]
Father Dennis Dease, president of a Catholic university in Minnesota, yesterday criticized Ann Coulter's appearance there as "hateful speech [that] vulgarizes our culture and goes against everything the University of St. Thomas stands for."
Writing in the University newsletter, The Bulletin News, Father Dease noted that the University of St. Thomas has adopted guidelines that call for addressing "controversial issues" in a "responsible and educative manner," and "in an arena free of reproach or reprisal." Members and guests "are expected to treat one another with respect and dignity."
How did Ann's appearance there last week measure up? Follow me to the flip...
Writes Father Dease:
... the reports I have heard from people whose views I respect suggest that her performance went far beyond the bounds of what is commonly accepted as civil discourse. Although her presentation may have been meant as an "act" or "shtick" to entertain by provoking those who disagree, such behavior unfortunately contributes to the growing dark side of our culture -- a disrespect for persons and their sincerely held beliefs. Such hateful speech vulgarizes our culture and goes against everything the University of St. Thomas stands for.
Wonder what pleasantries Ann has in store for Father Dease?