EMU: Kwame Kilpatrick speech not a university-sponsored event
Following last week's announcement that former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick will speak at Eastern Michigan University, the school has clarified that the event is not university sponsored.
"The appearance of former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick is not a university-sponsored event and the university is not providing any funding to Mr. Kilpatrick. Similar to many universities, Eastern has a policy allowing student organizations to determine programming based on their own interests and agenda," a statement released by EMU said.
Kwame Kilpatrick
"Eastern Michigan University supports more than 200 student organizations, representing a variety of interests and viewpoints. University policy is to encourage recognized student organizations to invite speakers to campus in the spirit of free exchange of ideas and to promote the timely discussion of a wide variety of issues," EMU's statement said.
Details of the university's policy can be read in a PDF found here.
EMU also said that student organizations are responsible for managing the events and for any speaker costs. The university does not vet, approve or deny student groups' choice of speaker, provided they meet the provisions detailed in the policy.
Comments
Steve Pierce
Wed, Nov 23, 2011 : 7:10 p.m.
Mr. Larcom, What is EMU doing to insure sales tax is paid and reported at the Kwame Kilpatrick book sale held in conjunction with this speaking engagement Mr. Kilpatrick is a private individual and is not exempt from reporting and paying Michigan State Sales Tax on all items sold in the the State of Michigan including on State property like EMU. The State of Michigan specifically states: "The Michigan Sales Tax Act (MCL 205.52(1)) provides that anyone making retail sales is subject to 6 percent sales tax on gross proceeds." That includes Kwame. Cheers! Steve Pierce
jns131
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 11:10 p.m.
I am watching channel four news and it looks like the apple does not fall far from the tree. His cousin is wanted for embezzlement and racketeering charges. Wow. I'd like to see how the rest of that family fairs.
Michael Christie
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 10:17 p.m.
I would hope that they will be sending the money to pay for this event to the City of Detroit to make up for what this criminal stole from the City.
Peter Eckstein
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 5:28 p.m.
EMU's position on this matter is admirable. It is impossible to defend Kwame's misdeeds as mayor, but if the university were to censor the speakers invited by recognized student organizations it would be a betrayal of its role as a marketplace of ideas. Yes, this will not be a big public relations hit with many Michiganians, but far worse would be the establishment of a board of censors to approve or disapprove all speakers on campus based on the popularity or unpopularity of their ideas or their records.
craig
Tue, Nov 29, 2011 : 4:16 p.m.
Absolutely right. I think people are reacting too emotionally to this than actually using their brains as well.
jns131
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 3:27 p.m.
Here is what is the biggest scam of them all. I just heard they reduced his payments back to the city? $114 a month. I am appalled by this because they were trying to get more and the court reduced it to this? He really is scamming Detroit. I hope the courts take money from this speech.
Geoff Larcom
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 3:26 p.m.
AnnArbor.com readers: Below is EMU's statement on the Kilpatrick event. It's important to note there is no speaker fee, and that members of the student group B.L.A.C.K. are paying for his flight from Dallas, about $400. There will be a book sale. The statement: The appearance of former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick is not a university-sponsored event and the university is not providing any funding to Mr. Kilpatrick. Similar to many universities, Eastern has a policy allowing student organizations to determine programming based on their own interests and agenda. Eastern Michigan University supports more than 200 student organizations, representing a variety of interests and viewpoints. University policy is to encourage recognized student organizations to invite speakers to campus in the spirit of free exchange of ideas and to promote the timely discussion of a wide variety of issues. Details of this policy can be found at <a href="http://www.emich.edu/policies/chapter8/8-4-3_policy.pdf" rel='nofollow'>http://www.emich.edu/policies/chapter8/8-4-3_policy.pdf</a>. Student organizations are responsible for managing the events and for any speaker costs. As a public institution, we do not vet, approve or deny their choice of speaker, provided they meet the provisions detailed in the policy: · The speaker(s) must not urge the audience to take action which is prohibited by the rules of the University or which is illegal under federal, state or local law. Advocating or urging the modification of the government of the United States or the State of Michigan, by violence or sabotage, is specifically prohibited. It is the responsibility of the student organization to inform speakers of these prohibitions. · Any acts that are disruptive to the normal operations of the University including classes and University business or infringe upon the rights of others will not be tolerated. · Sponsorship must be by a recognized student organization. Note: Larcom is director of media relations at EMU. He worked 26 years for The AA News.
4Bells
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 12:38 p.m.
EMU is a public, state-supported, taxpayer-funded institution. Regardless of who is paying for his travel, wining, dining & philandering; this university is still providing resources & will realize associated costs to facilitate this event on their campus. Of course, EMU is not devoid of a recent history of mismanagement & morally bankrupt decision-making then, is it? The taxpayers have paid enough for Kwame's criminal activities & lies. This event cannot be ethically justified. Who's next? Bernie Madoff, Charles Manson?
Cash
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 12:26 p.m.
B.L.A.C.K. members, I think it is admirable that students would want to hear from someone who has made a bad mistake, gone to prison, and is returning to society, contrite and determined to respect his/her victim(s). That said, you've picked the wrong guy. Rafael Johnson would be a great choice. After spending a decade in prison, he took total responsibility for his crime, and he has dedicated his life to making Detroit a better place to live. He works with neighborhoods and police to improve safety for citizens. Kwame Kilpatrick lied under oath. He is now charged under the RICO act, for multiple crimes against the very people that Rafael is trying to help. Stealing from the poor, all the time using them as pawns to get sympathy for himself, using his race as a tool, he is only an example of a spoiled rich man who is a sociopath. He refuses to accept responsibility for his OWN actions and he uses others to promote himself. Heroes can indeed be felons. They may make some of the BEST heroes because they have suffered through hell in our country's torturous prisons. And they have a lot of lessons to teach most Americans. However, stick with the winners! The winners are those who accept responsibility and try to make the world a better place. There is much to be learned by listening. BUT listen to those who have indeed LEARNED from their mistakes, not those who blame everyone but themselves. Cash
jns131
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 3:29 p.m.
Well said Cash. A lot of people have been duped by his ill petty deeds.
a2contrarian
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 12:17 p.m.
I don't like anything about the visit but the university is correct on the rights of student organizations to sponsor visits. This subject is pretty well settled in the law. Remember that the University of Michigan has had such luminaries as Angela Davis speak and while she was found not guilty of murder the U of M also named a dorm lounge in her honor. So they have honored an avowed Communist while charging Michigan residents $25,000 per year to attend and live in their dorms.
KingKwame DotCom
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 6:31 a.m.
EMU isn't being entirely honest about who is paying for this. While technically correct in saying that the student group is responsible for their own programming, and that they are paying for it, all programming boards pay for their programming with a budget allotted them by the school itself. So, yes, the school is paying for 100% of the fees associated with Kwame speaking at the school.
Tex Treeder
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 3:23 a.m.
I just like the fact that the accompanying photo shows Kilpatrick in his orange prison jumpsuit.
genetracy
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 3:07 a.m.
It sounds like my alma mater is on to something big. How about a "distinguished felons" speaker series? Let some former state prison inmate come in once a month and impart their wisdom on the students. Heck, get OJ once he gets released.
jns131
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 3:30 p.m.
How about felons who graduated from EMU and are on the mends to dupe society?
Steve Pierce
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 2:35 a.m.
On Eastern Echo, it was reported "Junior Nicholas Patterson serves as the president of B.L.A.C.K. and he said the student organization is using its own funds to sponsor Kilpatrick's visit. The group paid for his plane ticket but is not paying him to speak." Well how much was the plane ticket? Is it First class or refundable, or open ended return? Are they paying any other costs, like limo, food, security, what else? What are the exact costs B.L.A.C.K. is paying? Please tell us. And don't tell me there is no cost for EMU or Michigan taxpayers. Security will be stepped up at this event and will include numerous EMU police officers many of them on overtime and all of them paid for by taxpayers. This event is going to cost Michigan taxpayers plenty. Don't try to hide this as student fees. There is no such thing as private money at a state institution. It is all public money. That means public money, taxpayer money, is going to Kwame Kilpatrick. Shame on EMU Regents and Administration for allowing that to happen. We don't need a repeat of University House and the statements EMU told us for years about no public funds being spent on University House. I am all for inviting anyone you want to come speak at EMU. However when it comes to convicted felons that owe money to the taxpayers of the State of Michigan and City of Detroit, no taxpayer money should be spent inviting that felon to speak. If he wants to come speak, let it be on his dime, not the taxpayers. If Mr. Kilpatrick wants to seek forgiveness, then pay his debt first, then ask for forgiveness. Cheers! - Steve
lumberg48108
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 10:36 p.m.
wow - posters are ignorant the MAJORITY of campus speakers do not get paid - I would guess hundreds of speakers visit classes and events each semester and the most they get is pizza -- I dont know one speaker that gets paid --- my department has brought in 30 plus speakers over four years and the most they get is a rbber chicken dinner this is not a huge event - where a performance is given - speakers come to speak for various reasons -- this is not the million man march - the ignorance on these posts is amazing "no taxpayer money should be spent inviting that felon to speak. If he wants to come speak, let it be on his dime, not the taxpayers" people dont read the story and just comment -- its had been known since the story broke the org is paying his airfair and that the org received a modest stipend from Campus Life --- you make it sound like EMU is paying for his limo ride lastly - I simply dont get how people want the university to approve or vet speakers - that is just amazing ... EMU could control the speech of its groups by vetoing speakers - it does not matter if we approve or not - its part of the university experience and speakers will always be controversial to someone Ann Coulter, Rush Limbaugh, Bill Ayers, communists, socialists, etc etc Folks - we dont get to pick and choose who these kids want to come - under the guise of "I have a say cause its MY taxdollars" -- grow up
jns131
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 3:31 p.m.
Pay his debt? Did you hear what the court reduced his payments to? He will be finished paying them off when he is 400 years old. Sad.
KingKwame DotCom
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 6:38 a.m.
It's not likely that he's not receiving a speaking fee. I have been involved in college performances myself for many years. All speakers and performers of any type have a performance fee. Travel, hotel, food, etc. is always paid for on top of the speaking fee. All programming money that student groups spend is allotted to them directly from the school. ie: EMU is paying for 100% of the cost.
snoopdog
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 4:22 a.m.
Great post, one of the best ever and well thought out Steve ! Good Day
Steve Pierce
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 2:11 a.m.
Some of the great statements we have heard in this community over the last 10 years. With regards to a murder on campus, "No foul play is suspected." The presidents house, "No student funds were used to pay for University House." Water Street, "No general funds or taxpayer money will be spent on Water Street." Now the latest regarding Kwame Kilpatrick's visit to EMU, "The university is not providing any funding." Uh huh, right. Sure. Wink Wink Nudge Nudge, say no more. That doesn't mean Kwame is not getting paid, EMU nor B.L.A.C.K. haven't answered that question. So let me restate the question, Is KK receiving any honorarium or any other compensation in the form of cash or other consideration? Secondly, If KK's book or autographs are anything else is offered for sale before, during or after the event, the University is required to insure that the sellers are currently registered with the State of Michigan for Sales Tax reporting and the University must insure that all sales are properly reported to the State. The State can require that EMU collect and remit any sales tax due immediately. While the university is not required to collect sales tax, Individuals like KK are required to report and pay sales tax on any goods sold including autographs during an event on EMU's campus. I support EMU in encouraging free speech and differing views, I simply ask that EMU make sure they and their invited guest follow the law. Cheers! - Steve
jns131
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 3:32 p.m.
I heard any sales on that book and there is garnishment on it. I'd like to see that happen if it is on state property.
Sarah Casello-Rees
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 1:31 a.m.
I agree, student groups should be able to solicit controversial figures to speak... But my question is; what is he going to speak about? Might be interesting actually.
Total B
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 12:04 a.m.
Gee, what a surprise. Once again, EMU tries to do "damage control" in an attempt to separate itself from something it clearly has a role in ... isn't the event on University property? And didn't their Executive Director of Media relations write several comments following last week's annarbor.com article, "defending" the students and their decision to have Kwame speak? Kwame seems like a good fit at EMU ... both NEVER want to admit fault for their actions.
tom swift jr.
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 11:15 p.m.
That's a derail of the discussion, Dawn. This isn't a race issue. My comment would have been the same had KK been purple or green.
Dawn
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 10:10 p.m.
Just curious here. I have not attended EMU (mostly due to funding), but I am wondering if there are any groups there that focus on "White" issues and "White Leaders". I keep hearing about various groups for many ethnicities but I have yet to hear of one specifically for white folks. Are there any at EMU? Are there any, anywhere else?
EyeHeartA2
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 7:29 p.m.
I wonder if there was a group called White Leaders Aspiring for Critical Knowledge, if they would get Bernie Madoff to speak to them?
redwingshero
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 7:49 p.m.
There'd be so much backlash for even tryign to create a white group. It woudl never happen. Be seen as discriminatory.
grye
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 7:11 p.m.
The organization sponsoring Kilpatrick to speak is Black Leaders Aspiring for Critical Knowledge (BLACK). I trust that this group has not invited him to pay homage for his successful endeavors to become the mayor of Detroit. With all the illegal activites that happened while he was the mayor, there must be plenty of skeletons in his closet prior to obtaining that position. If BLACK is looking for individuals that can inspire positive attitudes and direction to find ways to make a difference in society, there are hundreds of other role models that are available.
genetracy
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 12:07 a.m.
Redemption? Yeah right. He will blame his problems on racism but also brag how he "stuck it to the man".
lumberg48108
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 7:54 p.m.
you are 100% correct alas, they chose Kwame so Kwame we will get we dont have to like it - we do have to let them do what they want
grye
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 7:50 p.m.
Thanks.
redwingshero
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 7:32 p.m.
Best post I've have seen today.
redwingshero
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 6:44 p.m.
Julie, Can you tell the masses which student organization arrganged for this lecture series to come to EMU?
redwingshero
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 8:32 p.m.
no biggie.
Fordie
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 8:20 p.m.
The 'nevermind' wasn't there when I posted - hadn't refreshed. Sorry for the redundancy.
lumberg48108
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 7:03 p.m.
its in the second graph of the story - try reading before posting "Kwame will launch a lecture series by a student group called Black Leaders Aspiring for Critical Knowledge. The speech is at 7 p.m. Nov. 29 at EMU's Student Center in Ypsilanti."
Fordie
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 7:01 p.m.
Redwing, "Kilpatrick — recently released from prison and facing federal charges — will launch a lecture series by a student group called Black Leaders Aspiring for Critical Knowledge. "
redwingshero
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 6:58 p.m.
Nevermind
dougfroma2
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 6:31 p.m.
Did he notify his PO he would be traveling to Michigan? Who is paying for his travel? Last I heard, he was unemployed.
redwingshero
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 7:15 p.m.
You are correct Mr. or Ms. Lumberg (great name btw). As an EMU alum, I am extremely disapointed/horrified with this student organization.
lumberg48108
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 7:02 p.m.
are these questions for EMU to answer? For the student org? Or for his probation officer? place your anger in the right place
redwingshero
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 6:35 p.m.
Exactly, how's he getting up here, a 18-speed cannondale?
Gramma
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 6:23 p.m.
I have nothing positive to say about Kwame Kilpatrick, however, I support his constitutional right to freedom of speech. Universities have a responsibility to encourage that right and to provide many viewpoints. When I was in college, George Wallace, then governor of Alabama, spoke. I strongly disagreed with his viewpoints and had no respect for him, but I believe he had the right to speak. I took advantage of my right to freedom of speech by sitting in the front row with an integrated group of friends and silently protesting what he was saying. A freedom not allowed to all persons is not a freedom for anyone.
leezee
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 6:20 p.m.
Topic? "I Had the World by the Tail and Threw it All Away Due to Greed" or "How to Become Mayor of a Large City and Get Away with as Much Crime as you Possibly Can.". I think there are still many people who love Kwame because he "Stuck to the Man". I have news for you - you are the Man. He stuck it to Detroit and he's sticking it these kids at EMU.
jns131
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 3:36 p.m.
That wasn't all he was sticking it too. Remember the look on his wife's face when it came out he was sleeping with that woman? I still can't believe she is still with him. He is broke and penniless and yet she sticks by her man. Woman needs a brain transplant.
Mark
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 6:15 p.m.
I was sure it was sponsored by ThugsRUs. I guess not.
dotdash
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 6:05 p.m.
It is usual for some money from university general funds or tuition dollars to be divvied up among student groups so they will have some money to work with. So the statement that the university is not funding the speaker is probably not exactly true. It may be true that the university doesn't have any control over who a group chooses to speak, but I'd bet that ultimately, the money to pay for this can be traced back to the university.
Fordie
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 8:19 p.m.
I would assume that Kwame would be required to report this as income, though I'm not 100% certain as I'm not an expert in tax law. As for the University end, I can only speak for my time at another university, not EMU. Typically, these types of expenses on the student group's end would be handled on a reimbursement basis. The point is not for the university to follow up on the expenses, only to verify that a legitimate purchase/payment was made, ensuring that it wasn't the student organization's leaders lining their pockets. Once this verification is made (typically in the form of a receipt/invoice), the university would take no further action. Even if they wanted to, I don't believe they would have any way to verify whether or not a speaker actually recorded the income, as those would be an individual's private records. The could follow up no more than to make sure that you recorded the income if you were speaking, or even if a corporation recorded the income from a purchase the university made.
redwingshero
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 7:13 p.m.
You have a point Fordie-Hwwever, I would like your opinion on this. Student group actually gives him a check or cash. Kwame has a legal obligation to report that as income, correct? What if the student group paid for his expenses? Is that not considered income? I ask because of this larger question/hypothetical: Do student organizations have to submit to the university a record of what was purchased/stipend used for? If they do, and EMU saw that Mr. Kilpatrick was paid, does EMU have a legal right to report this as income? (as Kwame is/was having his wages garnished?) Just thinking of possible rammifications for different scenarios.
Fordie
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 6:59 p.m.
Yes, this money can eventually traced back to EMU, but that is not the same as funding it. They have little control over how this money is spent and would likely have to disband the group to have any accountability over it. Redwingshero, saying that EMU's position is a lie is a bit of a stretch. To illustrate my point, I'm drinking a bottle of Coke. It cost me $1.50 in the vending machine. By your logic, my employer, which paid me last week, funded my Coke. Or should we go back further, what if you paid for a service my employer offers? Did you pay for my Coke (if so thank you). Or, was it your employer that bought it for me?
redwingshero
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 6:30 p.m.
So it's a lie for EMU to say "we are not providing any funding to Mr. Kilpatrick". Indirectly they are. EMU gives stipend to student org.'s, and this specific org that has yet to be named (why is that?), is potentially covering some of his expenses or giving him money. Lecture series don't come to college's to speak for free. If this is the case, the university is indirectly giving money to Mr. Kilpatrick. True of False?
lumberg48108
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 6:20 p.m.
all student orgs get a modest stipend from Campus Life (an EMU organization) --
glimmertwin
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 5:59 p.m.
Even is this student group is footing the bill for this travel expenses, that is more than its worth.
redwingshero
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 5:57 p.m.
Regardless of the school's positions saying they are not sponsoring this speaking engagement, it is still being held on Univeristy property, which would ultimately give the school final approval over what goes on over the grounds. So it's still going to give them a bit of PR over it, whether negative or not. In reference to previous posts, do we know 100% if he is getting paid for the speech? Would be great if the group handed him a check and Kim Worthy yanked it out of his hand and said something like- "oh you think you can have this, nah, this is going to Detroit". Black Leaders Aspiring for Critical Knowledge. Who/which student group petitioned the university to allow this? The words "leader" and critical knowledge" should in no way represent him. Extremely paradoxal. He has shown no humility for what he has done. Publicly gone on record saying if he had the choice, he would do it all the same again. Are the courts keeping an eye on this to see if he is getting income from this, so they can increase his monthly restitution payments upward from $160? (you know, so we can cut a century off his payment history). Needs to be some law enforcement there to see if the specific student organization hands him a check or some cash...
lumberg48108
Tue, Nov 22, 2011 : 4:27 p.m.
you want the university to approve speakers? think of the precedent that sets ... how dangersous would it be for the school to approve or vet all speakers --- most of your rants are against Kwame- which is fine but these are not EMU's concerns i am embarrassed at your logic and ignorance to this process - and how these things dont keep you from posting
redwingshero
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 6:27 p.m.
So there are no lines drawn for who or what can go down at a college campus as long as they have reserved the location/paid for it? So long as it is not breaking any laws? I would have thought that EMU could still be held liable if something were to go down. Still makes me embarassed to have gotten a graduate degree from there to think that a student organization would pursue an individual like him, to give a lecture series with a title that's laughable with him in it.
lumberg48108
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 6:19 p.m.
"which would ultimately give the school final approval over what goes on over the grounds. So it's still going to give them a bit of PR over it, whether negative or not." that is simply not the case - EMU and most schools simply to not operate this way - not too mention outside groups can rent/lease the ballroom for the events and EMU is not going to meddle with their speaker list either
tom swift jr.
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 5:53 p.m.
I'm surprised he's coming to Michigan at all. You would think there has to be one or two outstanding warrants for him. The man is a thief, a sham, and any organization that contributes to his welfare or shameless self promotion should think long and hard about the message they are sending out.
redwingshero
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 5:58 p.m.
For as often as he is quoted saying "Detroit needs to let go", why is he coming back to rub it in our face?
Ron Granger
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 5:49 p.m.
I am not a fan. But I respect the free speech aspect of the event, even for convicted felons. And I look forward to his upcoming federal trial. He gradulated from the Spartan school of law. I think he should go speak in that forum. There would be lots to talk about.
SonnyDog09
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 5:42 p.m.
"to prevent him from speaking would be the failing." I respectfully disagree. Someone is paying that crook money to speak. THAT is the failing.
redwingshero
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 6:05 p.m.
If via a university stipend to a student organization to his arifare or any expenses, that is income going to Kwame Kilpatrick and should be counted as such. That should mean he is capable of paying a higher restitution payment each month. @lumberg-or because someone is paying his expenses, it doesn't count as income? He gets to live the good life, becasue all his handlers take care of him and he can claim only the income he makes from his W-2? If that's the case, it's still sleezy classless and shenanigans.
lumberg48108
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 5:48 p.m.
like all student organizatiosn, this student org receives a most stipend from Campus Life; an EMU sponsored group unless they have a shadow benefactor there is no way a small group like this could afford to pay more than his airfaire (which they admitted to paying - all groups fund raise through oiy the year just to exist ... if people really think this group is paying KK some huge amount and they taxpayers are footing the bill - well, that is ignorant to how campus orgs work and exist
lumberg48108
Mon, Nov 21, 2011 : 5:37 p.m.
"EMU also said that student organizations are responsible for managing the events and for any speaker costs. The university does not vet, approve or deny student groups' choice of speaker, provided they meet the provisions detailed in the policy." Nor should it - be crticial of the choice the student org made if you must (and there is plenty to be critical of) but do not pretend this is a failing of EMU as an institution to prevent him from speaking would be the failing