Dear Alumna/us:

Manhattanville has been in the national spotlight over the past few weeks as one of our students, Toni Smith, a senior sociology major, has chosen to exercise her First Amendment right in the form of a silent protest during the National Anthem on the basketball court. Her action has sparked a national debate - on the First Amendment, the appropriateness of the time and place of her actions, the symbolism of the American flag, and the mixture of sports and politics.

Free speech is the cornerstone of our constitutional rights. Disagreement with Ms. Smith's expression does not deprive her of that right. Many have said that Ms. Smith is unpatriotic. Regardless of whether one agrees or disagrees with that statement, her conduct is protected under the First Amendment. In fact, this country was founded by revolutionaries who sought to protect voices of disagreement.

At the beginning of the season, the team agreed that though there were differing opinions on the team, Ms. Smith had the right to express herself. We have steadfastly supported not only Toni Smith's right, but also the rights of those in disagreement - whether on the basketball team or in the Manhattanville community. This process has engaged our community in an important educational process. Moreover, our already lively and dynamic learning environment has been enhanced by the opinions of our alumni.

I am grateful and proud we live in a country where we are free to express ourselves openly. I am proud to be president of your college - one with a long history of social action and diversity - where these freedoms have been upheld since 1841.

Sincerely,

Richard A. Berman
President
Manhattanville College