LETTER: Reps didn’t attack rally

Editor,

I wish to point out a few facts about the discussion of gay marriage that has been brought up on campus. First of all, the College Republicans have not been rude or offensive in their actions calling for the protection of traditional marriage. No one affiliated with the College Republicans singled out anyone for ridicule or derision, which was done by the opposition. None of the College Republicans swore or made offensive remarks toward anyone in the opposition.

This was not true of those that showed up to attack the College Republicans. We were subject to an onslaught of cursing, threats and ridicule. Many came close to violence at that very rally. The behavior of those opposing the USU College Republicans was typical of the ignorance and intolerance of those who cannot bear to see anyone that disagrees with them speak out. Those who opposed our actions even shut off our sound system, in a vile attempt to restrict our ability to speak. This mob behaved like ill-mannered children, throwing their fit when they did not get their way.

Did the College Republicans retaliate? Did we show up to attack the euphemistically named rally for peace and justice? Nope. Did any College Republicans try to shut up those at the rally? Not at all.

The College Republicans have even approached the Pride! Alliance repeatedly with an offer to debate the issue in an open forum, similar to the much-praised affirmative action debate. They have declined, under a pretense of fear of physical reprisal. Apparently they don’t mind shouting swear words in public and mocking those that don’t agree with them in public, but the idea of an open debate is terrifying. If they are so afraid of being attacked that they won’t debate, then why are they so willing to shout epithets at members of the local community? Maybe it is just easier to debate with curse words, than with reasoned arguments?

Gabriel White