Yesterday I had the opportunity to witness a speech by Spike Lee. Initially, I was thrilled in anticipation to hear what a man, who after making accomplished movies such as Malcolm X, Crooklyn and 25th Hour would have to say to PSU students. I was quickly disappointed.

A girl, very respectful of Lee's film career, asked how he felt about making such a large profit off of his Michael Jordan Nike commercials to an industry that treated its workers in third world countries so cruelly.

A man who claimed to be for the "smaller man" only proved his ignorance when he replied that Michael Jordan deserved to make such a large profit off of these commercials because of how many people bought Nike shoes due to the advertising. Though this is true, it should also be recognized that Michael Jordan, an amazing athlete, could easily market shoes for any company, including New Balance, a shoe company that operates in America and condemns cruel treatment in third world countries.

A man who is truly out for the "smaller man" would have educated the public on Nike's cruel tactics and pushed for cleaner, safer working conditions in those countries. Sadly, that action would have made both Lee and Jordan a few thousand dollars poorer.

As an inspiration for African Americans, prospective film directors and people as a whole, I was disappointed to witness a man who I have been a fan of for many years lose some of my respect and admiration.