Alumnus commends respect students exhibit at Coulter presentation

It has been 15 years since I last wrote a letter to The Daily Orange, but after returning to my alma mater for April 24’s lecture by conservative firebrand Ann Coulter, I must write to commend the students for their conduct during the event. You made this alumnus proud.

As a libertarian brand of Republican, I passionately disagree with Coulter on certain issues and bristle when she seems oblivious that snarky condescension undermines even her most meritorious arguments.

The students clearly understood what many do not: that genuine respect for the listener is an indispensible precursor to persuasion.

The last student to ask a question made a serious statement about the perception in some parts of the world that the American people do not care about civilian casualties caused by drone strikes. He received a curt response that —in its thoughtlessness — validated exactly what he had just said. It was far more powerful than the disruptive tactics I witnessed many times as a student.

I appreciate your respect for the rest of us who came to hear Coulter speak and want you to know your perspectives were heard more loudly than all the shouting in the world. Thank you.

Derek T. Shepard Jr., Esq.

Onondaga County Legislator
13th District