On Sept. 11, a number of students came before the Student Senate to voice their concerns about Dr. Jack Kevorkian coming to speak at UF. This is a highly controversial speaker, and I truly appreciate that students felt strongly enough to come before the Senate to speak to their representatives.
However, I would like to resolve some issues that have come up because of that meeting.
The Student Senate has absolutely no intention of censoring or interfering with Accent. When the students present asked how Accent speakers are selected, I offered to consider creating an ad-hoc committee to look into the issue. What I did not suggest was censoring Accent or changing any statutes that have to do with the agency.
One of Accent's core responsibilities is to give students the opportunity to open their eyes to new viewpoints. Part of growing up in today's society is learning about other people's beliefs and expanding our horizons by discussing them.
With the "Let Students Choose!" survey released Sept. 13, the selection of speakers and performers is in the control of students more than any other time in UF's history. With more than 3,000 students responding to the survey in the first five hours after its release, this is a great way for students to express their opinions about upcoming or potential speakers.
I have nothing but respect for Accent and its history of bringing incredible speakers to UF. I only hope that with student feedback, we can continue bringing speakers who encourage thought and discussion at UF.
