The video was necessarily out of context, since it was only 8 or 9 minutes amidst a 3-hour debate. The context is even broader, however, as evidenced by the President Hammond's decision to suspend the debate program in the face of a debate revolution that he helped fund for 10 years to the tune of over $250,000. Race relations in debate and FHSU's debate relationship with Towson would require far greater context than an 8-minute video or an 800-word column.

No matter. You are convinced that you know all the "facts" of this event and my personal biography because you ... what, read the paper and watch TV? Why not ask anyone involved, including Hammond himself, if it resulted from a defense against charges of complicity with institutional racism? Why not watch the video posted online (against our wishes) of the debate in question, to confirm my claims? Why not speak to the students you imply I was not defending? Why not, Mr. Morris, because you are content to live in the world of decent folks where "truths" are manufactured to fit prejudices.

Thanks also for watching "Democracy Matters." Nice to hear from a loyal viewer. In America, Mr. Morris, we are free to criticize the country we love. Easy accusations of anti-Americanism seem to be all the rage today on the right. I love America and am not afraid to criticize it, which makes me neither anti-American nor medicated.

I too believe President Hammond did what he thought was best for the university. I disagree with his decision to harm the students who had transferred to FHSU to debate with me by severing our employment relationship and suspending the debate program. I still respect greatly the work he has accomplished for FHSU, as he does me.

Whether I wear shoes in the warm weather does not determine my patriotism. Whether I am an honest and open critic of what I despise in the country I love does not determine my worthiness to offer that opinion. I walk with head held high, with grave regret, yes, but without disgrace or shame. And, I take solace that my journalism could get you to engage in public discourse, no matter how disparaging of me it is. Democracy wins when people disagree publicly. Thanks again, Mr. Morris.