Diversity goals should also include ideas

It appears that a battle to control free speech is being fought in the legislature and on the editorial pages. The suggestions don't seem to advance free speech as much as impeding other's opinions. We need a more positive solution which advances free speech for all.

My proposition would be to expand the present diversity movement to include diversity of ideas. Present diversity goals seem limited to race and sex. The diversity champions in education and industry should also be charged to include a free exchange of ideas whether they concern, for example, religious, political or economic issues. Educators and legislators should not push for indoctrination but encourage the acceptance of contrarian views as part of a constantly changing view of truth. Remember how science once considered eggs as unhealthy but now considers eggs as a healthy food choice. I think that righteousness has no place in an open society but I am willing to tolerate, not censor, other views.

Juergen Bruckner

Cedar Rapids