Comments by the chairman of the College Republicans in a recent story ("Pictures lead to call for resignations," Dec. 5) demonstrate poor taste and poor judgment on his behalf. While individuals can express opinions at private events, posting photos with provocative, mean-spirited captions on a Web site available to the world shows intent to display contempt for our entire Penn State community, rather than to defend free speech.

Those photos were an affront to the spirit of free speech and insulted all people with common decency. Isolated events like this detract attention from the many university initiatives to enhance the climate, such as the multi-year strategic plan Framework to Enhance Diversity. Events like this also attempt to derail the hard work of committed students, faculty, staff and administrators throughout all the Penn State campuses. It is heartening to see the supportive letters and comments from the Penn State community, including other student Republicans.

Our community needs to reject such divisive rhetoric offered by the chairman of College Republicans and others in a show of unity and to continue moving forward in genuine progress.