A hush fell on the standing room only crowd in the Smith-Brown Memorial Union as President George W. Bush addressed the nation Monday night on the United States and their allies position on the conflict in Iraq.
However, as soon as the live telecast ended, the room erupted in a heated debate on whether or not Bush made the right decision to give Saddam Hussein the option to flee his country or face an armed conflict.
“I’m very disappointed in the president’s response,” said Jay Settoon, a representative from the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge. “Bush has not shown just cause for this war. It is simply not legitimate.”
Over 200 students, faculty, and community leaders from Southern and Louisiana State University voiced there opinion at a public forum, “Bush’s War: Just or Unjust?”
Panelist ranging from political scientist to religious leaders gave their insight on issues such as UN Resolution 1441, Congress’ position on Bush’s decision, the moral implications of war, and the impact war would have on the nation’s economy.
Students also weighed in heavily on the discussion questions Bush’s character and his role as a leader.
“How do you all feel, knowing that Bush didn’t care enough to fight for his own country, yet he is still sending over people to fight in this war everyday?” asked Caitlyn Grabrek, a senior anthropology major from LSU. “My cousin’s father can’t get him out of fighting this war.”
The Southern University Senate Faculty sponsored the forum.
Ted White, department of mass communications chairperson, was also instrumental in putting together the event.
“The event was very successful,” said White. “However, we have a lot of work ahead of us.”
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SU Speaks Out on War
March 21, 2003
FORUM PANEL Frank Ransburg, University historian and political science professor, Michael Fontenot, professor of history, and Malcolm Myers, aide to U.S. Senator John Breaux, were three of eight panelist in Monday’s forum. – Photo by Gabrielle A. Maple/D
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