Despite threats of protest around President George W. Bush’s keynote speech at the University of Denver’s Korbel Dinner, the University is rightfully defending their decision.  The Korbel Dinner is hosted each year by the Josef Korbel School of International Studies each year to raise money for the school and its programs.

In a recently-issued statement, the school politely tells detractors to shove it:

“As one of the country’s leading graduate schools in international studies, we strive to create an environment that fosters intellectual growth and the critical examination of ideas.  Accordingly, we welcome speakers and dignitaries from around the globe who have a number of different perspectives…. [Bush’s] efforts fighting HIV/AIDS, cervical cancer and malaria continue to improve the human condition by addressing the needs of vast populations around the globe.”

President Bush also will receive the Global Service Award in honor of “his service to our nation, his leadership as the 43rd President of the United States, as well as his remarkable work in Africa, both during his presidency and in his post-presidency”.

It’s refreshing to see a university offer differing points of view, and then, sadly shocking to see them defend their commitment to offering said perspectives.  Well done, DU.