Hello,

I just wanted to share my thoughts after reading the editorial “There is only room for one holiday” by Chris Slattery. First off, I wanted to say that I do understand that it was an attempt at a satire, hopefully. However, it was a sad attempt that crossed many lines. While reading this article, I was personally called a heathen, and told to go back to my “hole in the ground” country of Hanukkahland, where ever that is.

If he was in fact trying to bring to light the ridiculous facebook status that he disagreed with, there would have been countless other ways for him to stress his opinion. As a reader, I would have much rather read an article about how he was so proud to be an American, where we DO include everyone and ARE receptive to everyone’s individual beliefs and practices. This would have been a much more appropriate way to emphasize the same point, without seriously offending people’s personal beliefs.

When I came to Grand Valley, one of the biggest downfalls to the school was the lack of diversity. I was assured (and after living here for two years believe) that Grand Valley is committed to diversifying the community that we live in. When I read pieces like this, which is read by many people who sadly are ignorant to the practices of other religions, it sends the exact opposite message that is intended. As stated, I do believe that Grand Valley is committed to diversity but joking about issues like this is counter-affective to this goal.

I anxiously await hearing back from you, letting me know what steps will be taken to make sure that no one is ever again offended as much as I was while reading a Lanthorn article.

Thank you for your time,

NOAH ZUCKER