As a senior who has reached the goal of becoming a graduate of Ohio State, I find myself somewhat concerned that OSU is interested in inviting President Bush to speak at our commencement.
Although President Bush is the leader of our country and has done well in light of recent events, OSU must recognize he does not represent everyone. While he may be asked to speak about raising security and safety concerns, politics will prevail. It may come as a surprise to OSU, but not all students graduating agree with his ideology and policies.
This is a celebration to us and what we have endured, sacrificed, and cherished for the last four (sometimes more) years. This is not the time that we should be subjected to political wrangling and posturing.
My other concern is that since President Bush is a very high profile person, there are bound to be those individuals that strongly disagree with some of his policies and will take this opportunity to share their displeasure with him. This is not what I want at my college graduation.
I am not devaluing those who may disagree with President Bush, but I really don’t want my family and friends to have to deal with protesters at my graduation. I don’t want those disruptions taking place at what may be one of the most important times of our lives.
I ask OSU to rethink this plan of action. I also encourage any members of the graduating class of 2002 that agree with this notion to ensure who our graduation ceremony is focused on our achievements and not politics to share those opinions with OSU as well.
Kris Pierceseniorcommunication
