On Friday, Oct. 5, Guilford College held an all-day learn-in entitled, “Seeking Understanding – the Sept. 11th Tragedies.”At 2:10 pm on the day of the learn-in a forum was held on the “Middle Eastern and Afghan Perspectives” regarding these tragic events. The speakers slated to give this Middle Eastern and Afghan perspective were not truly representative of this perspective, unless Israel is somehow not considered in the Middle East.

That’s correct ladies and gentleman, a discussion on Middle Eastern perspectives was conducted without the perspective of the state of Israel, whom all would agree is a major player in the affairs of the Middle East. Many would argue that Israel is the major player in the Middle East situation.

Yet in this discussion the Israeli and Jewish perspectives were totally ignored and that is a travesty. It showcases that Guilford College despite having this learn-in is not really learning anything, by offering a totally biased and one-sided perspectives on these events and their implications for the Middle East situation.

Even worse, Guilford should know better and more than a slap on the wrist, the insensitivity shown by the parties putting on this learn-in is extraordinary to say the least. In conclusion, Guilford is perpetuating biases and stereotypes and not teaching anyone about this situation, by refusing to recognize all sides of this issue.

Guilford is ignoring the principles it was founded on and has evolved into a politically correct autocratic college, and it is selling its message to the highest bidder. It seems at Guilford that times are a changing and changing away from honest reflections on issues towards simple-minded one-sided hypocrisy.

This truly saddens me that this community that I came into with high-minded ideals has evolved into a simmering snake pit of half-truths and lies. Whose voices are being listened to anymore?

I know that mine is not. My voice is different and difference is no longer tolerated, especially when it’s not the “correct” difference. Above all if the ideals of the college are not protected by the administration, then who speaks for the students anymore?

What is the truth at Guilford College? Are we running away from the truth because it hits too close to home, or do we just not want the real answers anymore?