Convocation at VTU?

Question

Am I the only one who thinks Dr. Giovanni's closing speech was wildly inappropriate? If you didn't hear it, you can find it here:

http://www.richmond.com/news/output.aspx?from=rss&feed=features&article_id=4654611

I found it inappropriate to bring in the suffering of those elsewhere in the world, as to somehow minimize the magnitude of this tragedy. If a friend of mine died, I would not appreciate someone telling me, "Yes, it's not fair. But neither is it fair that the dodo bird has not breathed life for almost 400 years. Nor is it fair that women in much of the Muslim world cannot earn advanced degrees."

It almost sounded like she was saying, "Get over it. Life is not fair." In my opinion, when someone is grieving, you focus on the object of their grief. You don't divert attention away from it.

Also, I heard the speech live and felt her tone was inappropriately militant. And don't get me started on the chant, although I understand many of the students did find it inspiring. Again, maybe it's just my perception. Just looking to see if anyone else saw things that way.

Answer 1

yes, not really a great approach at this time.

Answer 2

Why was it inappropriate? It did deal with some issues that weren't at hand, but then maybe it was her intent to remind everyone that there is always suffering going on all over the planet and to keep things in perspective.

Answer 3

I wouldn't say it was inappropriate, but it was definitely peculiar. Because she's a poet and her speech was an artistic expression, I'd imagine she was given a little leeway. Wouldn't have been my first choice though.

Answer 4

those students got owned