I am both baffled and offended at the June 15 column by Kalle Oakes, titled “EL talks left some speechless.”

I believe that the five honor parts of the Class of 2004 took a challenging topic and delivered tasteful speeches that successfully tied a theme of bodily function to a theme of functioning in society. They suggested that as we should be comfortable with our bodies we should also be comfortable to be ourselves and express our uniqueness in a society that is forever demanding that we conform and live within the “box.”

It is ironic that a reporter would seek to censor or edit the expression of five exceptional students. Would Mr. Oakes have condemned Benjamin Franklin on his speech on flatulence at his acceptance to the French Academy of Sciences in 1781?

These students handled their speeches in a very mature and sensitive manner, making solid ties to how they should present themselves in the world ahead of them. At no time did they engage in “scatological oratory,” nor was I ever in danger of feeling my “hands flying through the air to cover a child’s ears”.

I applaud teachers and staff at Edward Little for encouraging students to think outside the box. It was evident that E.L. is producing students that have the ability to think for themselves, and who will surely be valuable contributors to our society.

It is unfortunate Mr. Oakes didn’t seem to get the message of these fine young graduates.

Thomas Platz,

Edward Little Class of 1969, Auburn

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