Dear Dr. Bollinger,
I am saddened to see how ungraciously our country was represented by you in your introduction of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Regardless of what one might think of him as a person or a leader, he was, after all, invited by you to speak, was a guest in your "house," and deserved respectful treatment.
My liberal arts education led me to believe that we who hold advanced degrees and live the life of the mind are to represent ourselves and our way of life as rational and more fair than the emotionally driven lives of religion and jingoism. It is a shame that we have been degraded by your behavior. President Ahmadinejad's own words would have done all that was needed to show the world the sort of person he is. It would have been nice if we'd come out looking like the civilized and well mannered ones.
You've added another elemental bit of ammunition to those who desire to disrespect the United States. I wonder what you might do to repair it?
Perhaps you should consult Ms. Manners?
Sincerely,
Margaret Howard
If you'd like to drop him a note, pro or con his manner:
Phone: 212-854-9970
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