I was appalled to learn that here in Western Montana, where our freedoms are as tenaciously embraced as anywhere in the world, some bigoted, academic administrator in Ronan chose to deny his students the exceptional opportunity to hear the wisdom of a celebrated man willing to share his story of rising from nothing to international fame through old-fashioned hard work and determination.

How ironic that Mr. Jerry Molen, the Oscar-winning producer of “Schindler’s List,” would be subjected himself to the same discrimination and political judgment that led to so much angst as told in that remarkable movie.

This event brings to mind a newspaper interview with a river guide who had just spent a day, one-on-one, with then Vice President Dick Cheney. When asked what the two talked about while fishing on the Snake River, the egocentric young man replied, “We discussed nothing because I disagree with Mr. Cheney’s opinions.”

I admittedly embrace conservative views myself and yet I wouldn’t hesitate to spend a day fishing and talking, one-on-one, with Hillary Clinton or even (deep breath here) President Obama.

I know Mr. Molen personally and know that his presentation was not about pushing any political agenda on his audience, but was to be the sharing of his personal success story with the hope of instilling in the young people the motivation and desire to achieve all they are capable of and becoming respected contributors to their local community and country.

I understand that the principal of Ronan High School didn’t even show the courtesy to read Mr. Molen’s speech before denying the guest his First Amendment rights.

Would this unremarkable coward have been so eager to wait for Sean Penn, George Clooney or Rosie O’Donnell to show up at the Ronan High School parking lot before telling them to take a hike?

America’s freedoms are not to be abused by anyone regardless of opinion or job description.

This is a very serious matter because one minor slip now will surely lead to much greater prejudice and injustice later on. I am glad to hear that this unqualified administrator is not returning to Ronan High School next year.

Let’s hope he is replaced with someone who read and understands the Constitution of the United States and the Bill of Rights and has the courage to defend the law of the land.

John Merlette,

Bigfork