Boston Globe: Invitation to Rice debated at BC

[Eugene]

Invitation to Rice debated at BC

Honorary degree draws objections

By Catherine Elton, Globe Correspondent | May 3, 2006

Two leading theologians at Boston College have written a stinging letter objecting
to the college's decision to invite Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice to speak
at graduation and to give her an honorary degree.

Nearly 100 faculty members have signed the letter, according to the theology
department, which declined to release their names.

The letter, which will be delivered to the president and board of trustees, has set off
a fiery debate.

<snip>

"On the levels of both moral principle and practical moral judgment, Secretary Rice's
approach to international affairs is in fundamental conflict with Boston College's
commitment to the values of the Catholic and Jesuit traditions and is inconsistent with
the humanistic values that inspire the university's work," the letter said. It pointed out
Pope John Paul II's opposition to the war in Iraq.

<snip>

Full article: http://www.boston.com/news/education/higher/articles/2006/05/03/invitation_to_rice_debated_at_bc_honorary_degree_draws_objections
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[Divernan]

1. Explain to the BC pres. that torture went out with the Inquisition

as far as the official RC church position goes.

[Crankie Avalon]

2. The theologians and faculty are absolutely correct...

...and as a BC alumnus, I dearly hope my old school rethinks its decision and turns around and does what is right.

The year I graduated, Jonathan Kozol was honored. It would have really put a damper on the memories of that day if we had had someone of Condoleeza Rice's ilk, instead.

[tanyev]

3. Don't rescind her invitation;

lead a mass walkout when she begins to speak. Much more dramatic.

[Divernan]

4. But if walkout is threatened in advance, administration will counter

with a threat to withhold diplomas - this has happened in the past when schools schedule really politically offensive commencement speakers. So I advise the student body to quietly plan some response, but don't get mouthy about it to the press or anyone beforehand. Even then there is usually some turncoat, brown-nose student who will leak it to the president's office.