Letters to the editor

Defending Robertson and his achievements

I didn't plan on writing anything in defense of Pat Robertson, but some of the recent Prince articles have made me aware of the fact that most people have an inaccurate perception of him. Were I to base my opinion on him on negative editorials, or comments taken out of context, I, too, would have strong doubts about the validity of his message and ministry. My opinions of him, however, are not based on the liberal media's depiction of him; as his granddaughter, I have a radically different perspective.

Yes, I know that I have a biased opinion about him, but how is my bias any worse than that of some of the others expressed? I know his character and actions, rather than some ridiculous caricature. Instead of giving you an overly passionate opinion of my grandfather's achievements, I'll let some of them speak for themselves.

His humanitarian efforts include founding Operation Blessing International Relief and Development Corporation in 1978, which has distributed over $500 million worth of food, medicine, clothing and services to the poor and needy throughout the world. In 1996 Operation Blessing began the Flying Hospital, by transforming a Lockheed L-1011-50 jet airliner into a medical facility, where they perform surgery in developing countries for people with little access to basic healthcare. These medical missions have treated over 80,000 people, and performed over 3,000 surgeries. Twenty-two state governors, including Bill Clinton in 1988, have issued special proclamations honoring the humanitarian work of Robertson and Operation Blessing. In 1982, he was also recognized as Humanitarian of the Year by Food For the Hungry, Inc.

In addition to finishing third in his bid for the Republican Party's Presidential Nomination in 1988, Robertson has contributed to the political world in other capacities. He founded the Christian Coalition in 1990, which served as a strong political presence. He is also a past president of the Council for National Policy and was a member of Ronald Reagan's Task Force on Victims of Crime.

In light of these and other accomplishments, in the spirit of tolerance and diversity, I encourage the Princeton students to come hear his talk and decide for themselves the true intentions and ideology of Pat Robertson.

Many of you will not agree with his political views, but to base your opinion of him on a few ridiculous statements, rather than the complete legacy of his life, is unfair. If you compare this editorial to most of the others written, it seems like we're describing two different men. Rather than erroneously using the media's conception to presuppose his motivation, please listen to what he says with an open mind and decide for yourself. Laura Robertson '04