News outlets across the nation are picking up the story of a skit at an North Dakota State University function in which a white student in blackface and an afro wig portrayed Obama receiving a lap dance. The same skit also featured two cowboys simulating sex while holding an Obama sign, which was ripped up at the scene’s conclusion.

April 4, 2008 is the 40th anniversary of Dr. Martin King losing his life in Memphis. Since his passing, King has been canonized as a hero of epic proportions. He is no longer looked upon simply as a man devoted to righteous work. Instead, he is characterized as an immortal, messianic figure whose accomplishments are beyond the realm of possibility for imperfect souls. This phenomenon is a problem on many levels.

If violence and unrest does occur over a video that allegedly criticizes Islam, and people are hurt, then the director is one step closer to proving his point, and people like myself, who I consider liberal and tolerant, will be one step closer to revoking the benefit of the doubt that I have bestowed upon the Muslim world.

If the Maryland General Assembly passes the No Nooses Act, it would bad the placement of a swastika sign or a noose — a symbol historically representing the lynchings of blacks during the 19th and 20th centuries — on public or private properties without permission of the owner.

Everyone gets mad when a police officer tasers someone to death. Everyone is disgusted with the war in Iraq. Everyone hates when America forces itself and her democracy down the throats of other people. But when someone condemns America for her crimes, people act as though they are offended.

A recent report on higher education in the state of Connecticut showed that minority students were underrepresented at the University of Connecticut. However, UConn has gone to great lengths to increase enrollment and there is not much more that can be done. They should be applauded for their effort but unfortunately not all outcomes are in their control.