Press freedom

By Editorial

Baylor University president Robert Sloan should pay more attention to the school's dysfunctional athletic program and less attention to the student newspaper's support of gay marriages.

The editorial published by Baylor's student paper said it is not fair to discriminate against someone because of their heritage, race or sexual orientation. "It (the editorial) comes dangerously close to violating university policy as established in the Student Handbook," Sloan told The Associated Press.

Baylor, as a private Baptist institution, has every right to take a stand on controversial topics, which they certainly have regarding homosexual marriages. Santa Clara, for example, has a right to control contraceptives on campus.

But controversial issues should be addressed by the campus media. It is not the job of the newspaper to be the mouthpiece for the president. Editorial pages serve as a forum for lively debate, and critical thinking should not feel stifled by the administration.

In the end, Sloan did one thing right â€" not disciplining the editorial board members. Journalistic integrity, above all else, must be protected.