Hypocrisy at GU

Gonzaga’s latest refusal to host conservative Ben Shapiro (“GU rejects request for Shapiro to speak,”Nov. 30) is contrary to its mission statement: “… through engagement with knowledge, wisdom and questions informed by classical and contemporary perspectives, Gonzaga cultivates in its students the capacity and dispositions for reflective and critical thought, lifelong learning,” etc.

However, Gonzaga deters controversial conservative speakers while left-wing activists, such as Angela Davis, have been welcomed by the university. What hypocrisy! Welcoming activist Angela Davis somehow supports the tenets of its Mission Statement, but deeming Ben Shapiro, a conservative pro-life commentator, not worthy to speak at Gonzaga points out the progressive nature of its administration and faculty.

The parents of students may not be aware, but the Spokane locals certainly are apprised of the discrimination of conservative speakers — Dinesh D’Souza being a case in point. Only after a remarkable outcry from the Spokane community, did Thane McCulloh override the faculty members who felt that D’Souza’s appearance was “dangerous.” Interestingly, there was no protest and Mr. D’Souza was warmly welcomed by the packed audience.

To inculcate students with progressive attitudes to the deterrence of conservative values, questions why parents pay many thousands of dollars to have their child attend a school that disavows diversity of opinion.

Connie Zimmerman

Spokane