In response to the letter to the editor in the April 7 Helmsman,to clarify what happened at the Language Fair March 27:
The paper banners (not "flags") were advertising a BGALAdiscussion on gay marriage, one of the most sharply divisive issuesin American politics.The words "gay marriage" were in large, clear,black letters and the most prominent on the banners. Although I wasno one's "babysitter," as co-director, I had the principalresponsibility for organizing and running the fair.
The BGALA posters were hung for The University community to see,not for ninth graders from Cabot, Ark. In 29 years here, I havenever forgotten that we are an institution of higher learning Highschools are not. I will not and cannot apologize for temporarilydisplacing the banners during a high school event.
But I do apologize sincerely for forgetting to unfurl thebanners afterward. As co-director, I had been up since 5:30 a.m.,worked all day, and left for home after 4:30 p.m. I remembered thebanners when I was nearly home, but I was unwilling to return toThe University, not knowing whether the UC would still beopen.Monday morning, the banners were gone from where I had leftthem.
Finally, Ms. Hill should know that I too have gay friends andcolleagues, some of whom participated in the Language Fair. Theircontribution was enormous, and I am very grateful. Still, althoughaffirming one's sexuality is usually a good thing, as Ms. Hillsays, I am glad no one chose to come out at the fair. It was, afterall, a high school event.
Leo A. Connolly
Professor,
German and Linguistics
