Administration regrets bridge whitewashing

For a number of years, the policy of the University's Facilities Management Department has been to paint over vulgar or obscene graffiti placed on the University campus. Last week, there was particular concern over a number of words and phrases-some part of the "coming out week wall" and some painted by others.

Some of these were obscene and, consistent with past policy, should have been painted over by Facilities staff. Most, however, were statements that reflected the world view of gays and lesbians and were consistent with their right to free expression. The removal of these statements was an error in judgement that cannot be condoned. The Facilities Department has been instructed to be more circumspect in future decisions to paint over language at the underpass.

The exercise of free speech may make us uncomfortable at times, but the principles of such speech and open inquiry are at the very foundation of Duke University. We regret this incident.

Tallman Trask III

Executive Vice President