The Sun Journal’s Oct. 20 editorial presents an unfortunate and distorted interpretation of Brent Bowen’s incident concerning First Amendment rights at Lewiston High School.

The editorial was right to praise Lewiston High School Principal Patrick O’Neill for his mature response to the course of events. The editorial was remarkably one-sided, however. It ignored O’Neill’s pledge to support Brent as he works to bring an academic bill of rights to Lewiston High School and heighten awareness about academic freedom and free speech, issues that should be important to all students.

The Maine College Republicans’ news release appeared to be worthwhile, for it brought these issues to the public’s attention, and now the school administration is encouraging action.

As a fellow student, I admire Brent’s determination to stand up for academic freedom. His civic-mindedness, intellect and community involvement should serve as an inspiration to all young Mainers.

Joshua Brian Rivet, Lewiston