RECENT DOONESBURY CARTOON NEEDED MORE THOUGHT

I am all for freedom of speech and the defense of those freedoms. But this
is not about freedom of speech. This is about very bad taste.

Garry Trudeau's Doonesbury cartoon for the Feb. 2 edition was not only bad
taste but reckless and irresponsible.

Right in the middle of the Comics section for all the children to see is a
cartoon character drawn as a marijuana cigarette. Even worse is Trudeau's
portrayal of marijuana as less harmful than cigarettes. I have seen some
stupid things but this one takes the cake.

I understand our right to say what we want. But such a thing as this is not
for the Sunday comics section. Mr. Trudeau has portrayed great
irresponsibility in choosing the wrong medium in expressing an idea. Next
time, I hope Mr. Trudeau does not yell fire in a theater. Freedom of speech
is our right but it must be utilized responsibly.

HEATH COFFIELD

Williamston