Commentaries

May 18, 2009

 Commentaries is where Minnesota Public Radio welcomes your thoughtful opinion about current events and issues. Commentaries are like letters to the editor. To be considered for publication, your commentary should be issue-related, clearly written, and follow our Terms of Use. New insights into ongoing topics are especially welcome. Not all commentaries received are published. For topical interaction with others, visit the discussion groups.

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UND team name change diminishes history

Give it up. The best way to forget a people is to remove all references to them. [MPR News: UND's Fighting Sioux nickname going away]

My ancestors were Vikings and other than their poor performance I consider it an honor to have a team named after my people. My ancestors were barbarians, I am not. They were respected for their greatness as warriors just like the Trojans, Fighting Irish, and Spartans. An alternative to warriors are vicious animals like timberwolves, badgers, wolverines... and what, the gophers? Oooh gophers always instill fear and respect in me.

Perhaps UND should change their name to the Subdued Sioux or the Serendipity Sioux. I would suggest to UND to give it up, it's not worth all this nonsense. If the Sioux find this offensive then end the controversy and find a new name. We may forget the Sioux were ever significant in the history of North Dakota.

Gerald Myking
North Mankato, Minn.


Medical decisions and courts vs. religious convictions

I'm appalled at the court's decision involving the 13 year's cancer treatment. [MPR News: Family lands in court over son's cancer treatment]

As a parent, I am appalled at the court's decision to force this child to have chemo treatment against the will of the child and the family's religious convictions and beliefs. It is scary to think that the government thinks they have this child's best interest in mind over the parents who love and care for their child(ren). This is unbelievable! I totally support this family's choice and believe they are doing what is best.

God is so good. He can provide for the cure for this child through prayer and natural alternatives and the child's strong belief that this will happen. We need to rally behind this family.

Jean Gerstner
Gilbert, Ariz.


Minnesota's standard of living

Our governor has been a faithful soldier by helping out a few very wealthy Minnesotans, who ironically wish to maintain the standard of living Minnesota used to be proud of. [MPR News: Pawlenty to use line veto power to balance budget]

LouAnne Olson
Crookston, Minn.


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