Editor:M

This letter concerns the "Mall preachers" which we, as students, have the opportunity to listen to each day on the mall.

These messengers from heaven aim to enlighten us of Yoshua (or more obvious things such as the reason Christians celebrate Easter). However, the only thing these men have done for me is interrupt my studying. If reminded that many people are on the Mall to study, many preachers will remind us of the sign which reads "speakers corner" in front of the Student Union and of their freedom of speech. But does the freedom of speech include disturbing the peace?

I would contend that it does not. Right now, I'm sure there are those of you who are reading this thinking "why don't you go to the library to study," but why should I have to? I prefer sitting in the sun, outside - that's why I live in this state. I, the tuition-paying student, have just as much right to study on the Mall as the preachers do to shout about our collective sins. "Why can't I ignore them and study anyway?" I wish I could, but I can't. Why can't the preachers speak at a normal volume? If they did, those who wished to hear them and argue with them could crowd around them (as they do already), and those who do not want to listen wouldn't have to.

The Mall preachers disturb the peace daily, while University Police sit and watch girls walk by - I don't think these police have any hearing problems, they certainly don't when it comes to breaking up parties.

Matt Woods
general biology sophomore