The photographs taken at College Republicans Chairman Brian Battaglia's Halloween party, while deplorable, are not illegal ("Pictures lead to call for resignations," Dec. 5). We support everyone's right to free speech, but we dismiss claims by Battaglia that he is not responsible for actions that took place at his private party. A true leader faces up to criticism and takes decisive action; Brian Battaglia refused to do so.

When the Black Caucus showed up Thursday night at a debate between College Republicans and College Democrats to protest his actions, the entire College Republicans organization suffered their wrath. He allowed his fellow members to take the heat for something rightly addressed by his office. First Amendment rights protect even those opinions that part with common decency. However, free expression is not the only value precious to our society. Conservatives themselves place great emphasis on personal responsibility, and we call on Battaglia now to follow his professed philosophy and take responsibility for his actions. By becoming a student at Penn State, Brian Battaglia agreed to abide by the code of conduct set forth by the university, whether he approves of those policies or not.

The university has decided that the letter of the law was not broken, but there can be no doubt that he acted in a manner contrary to the spirit. We ask that, out of respect for the Penn State community, he issue a formal apology.

Additionally, the actions of Brian Battaglia reflect badly on his entire organization, and if he is a true leader, he will step down from his position as chairman. If Brian Battaglia refuses to resign, then it is up to the College Republicans to decide for themselves whether or not they wish to be associated with such actions.