CA's Thoughts on Ambassador Young

I did not attend the speech on Tuesday night because of my Television Journalism class. However, I looked at the notes that David Snyder took as well as made some observations from our disscussion in class. I had heard of Ambassador Young in a Political Science course for his accomplishments as a Mayor, Congressmen, and an Ambassador. As a side note, did anyone see his picture on the billboard for the MLK celebration on the way to Anderson on Hwy 76? I saw it this afternoon on the way to Anderson and thought it was a creative PR move.

I understand from the opinions from other students that Mr. Young's speech was not quite as organized and flowing as some of us have been taught in school. Although this style element may detract from the overall flow of the speech, I hope it does not take away from the intended meaning of the speech. Also, Mr. Young's impressive history and resume adds creditability to the message of the speech... by advocating peace.

It is no secret that the war in Iraq did not go exactly as the Bush Administration had planned... heck, did it have a plan? I find it very interesting that Mr. Young spoke about peace and not fighting a war when in fact we are still fighting a war and on the close eve of President Bush's reaffirmation. Americans are not only fighting a war in the Middle East but also fighting an equality war, one that has been going on for ages. I think it was very interesting that Mr. Young said to the effect that just because you don't see the movement for civil rights does not mean the battle is over. We, meaning all Americans, must continue the fight and the struggle that Dr. King and many countless civil rights leaders began until America and her people are truly equal.

Clemson University is a unique place to go to school for some positive and negative reasons. My grandfather graduated from here in 1932, and he was angered when Clemson became a civilian school... to the point he made my uncles go to The Citadel in Charleston for a military education. He believed strongly in the military as he served in World War I and World War II... and beleived even stronger in Clemson. But, with the advancements that have been made in our society, I wonder how he would feel about the military today. It's had for me to disagree with the Armed Services because my dad is retired from the Navy, my boyfriend's dad is a retired Lt. Col. from the Army, as well as others who have served America. I think that we must learn from our past and military history, but we should not let it shape our future.

Another random fact: Did you know that MLK Day is not recognized in Greenville or York County?? I am from York County, and we have tried for years to get that passes but with no avail. And, the MLK Day of Service was only began here at Clemson so that the school would qualify for more state based money a mere four years ago. We still have a long way to go...