About Ahmadinejad, I suppose most of you have been attacking on the Irani President, just because he has own view... [MORE]

Farooq

Sep 25, 2008 06:15

Zionist control of our educational institutions, the media, our banking system, our monetary currency and our government is not about... [MORE]

Jerry

Sep 27, 2007 03:47

thank you mr bollinger for your comments. [MORE]

ron mahfouz

Sep 26, 2007 18:13

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...

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]

Beck

Sep 24, 2007 13:38

I concur-You said it very well! [MORE]

karin

Sep 24, 2007 15:08

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]

ZB

Sep 24, 2007 11:37

You Sir, are a patriot! [MORE]

Tim

Sep 24, 2007 17:07

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]

Bob Jones

Sep 24, 2007 09:04

Yeah...right. Can you imagine? [MORE]

Bennett

Sep 24, 2007 09:41

All of this fear mongering is not American at all. Go hide under your rock as the sheep and... [MORE]

a free thinking Amrican

Sep 24, 2007 10:25

You're not free thinking - You're free of thought. Genocidal maniacs shouldn't be provided with a patina of respectability. They should... [MORE]

Dave

Sep 24, 2007 13:06

By allowing the terrorist in Iran to speak, he is being given a forum for propaganda. Read the Koran, and... [MORE]

karin

Sep 24, 2007 14:59

How does he differ? [MORE]

a free thinking American

Sep 28, 2007 09:13

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]

Peace

Sep 24, 2007 00:36

Real good journalism right there! [MORE]

Daniel

Sep 24, 2007 00:30

This is a fabulous article. THANKS for ex pressing our views so well! I read a comment somewhere that someone felt... [MORE]

Rose

Sep 24, 2007 00:29

I would divest all holdingsfrom the University of Columbia.I would cut off all fundingfor a period of one year from... [MORE]

Steve Real

Sep 24, 2007 00:30

I sent a private msg to Mr. Bollinger decrying Columbia's action. It is possible that Columbia will henceforth be known as... [MORE]

ben perlmutter

Sep 24, 2007 00:29

It's quite interesting that a leading university, a repository of knowledge and academic pool of original thought, would be questioned... [MORE]

R L Turner

Sep 24, 2007 00:28

Mr. Bollinger and Mr. Coatsworth are so blinded by their need for inclusiveness that they fail to realize that the... [MORE]

Eric Hickey

Sep 24, 2007 00:27

Calling the holocaust a myth is extremely stupid, but nowhere near tantamount to being Hitler. Witholding capital to this school... [MORE]

Nick

Sep 23, 2007 23:55