To the Editor:

Re "Debate Over a Professor Who Shouted Anti-Israel Statement" (Oct. 31):

How ironic that in the quote attributed to President of the American Association of University Professors, Cary Nelson, he defends the right of a heckler to freely express his views by shouting out a call for the destruction and eradication of an entire nation, yet he is offended by Kent State University President Lefton's expression of moral outrage and institutional embarrassment resulting from the heckler's outburst. 

President Lefton's statement condemning and denouncing Professor Pino's hateful words was an appropriate use of the university's own freedom of speech.  It sent a critical countervailing message to the university community, reiterating the importance of civility to help promote a safe and respectful learning environment and advance academic discourse.  It is surprising and quite disappointing that the quoted statement from Professor Nelson did not endorse this essential element of free academic exchange.

As staunch advocates of free speech and academic freedom, we fight for the free exchange of ideas even when we disagree with those ideas.  We are equally committed to the notion that campus leaders from every sector of the academy have a responsibility to advance the exchange of ideas in an atmosphere of mutual respect.  We hope Professor Nelson shares our commitment.