Jerry Falwell's Idea of Diversity

Jerry Falwell had an op-ed in Sunday's New York Times explaining that his invitation to have John McCain deliver the commencement at Liberty University should not be interpreted as an endorsement of McCain. According to Falwell, he has invited many speakers to Liberty with whom he does not necessarily agree. The roster of speakers, he wrote, is as diverse as the student body.

Part of our tradition is to expose students to outstanding leaders from all walks of life, including some who may not completely agree with Liberty's philosophy.

Our commencement exercises present an opportunity to do this. Past speakers like George H. W. Bush, Clarence Thomas, Billy Graham and Ed Meese have all shared their wisdom with our students. What these speakers have in common, despite their differences, is the belief that America is made better through a life dedicated to public service. Mr. McCain fits squarely within this tradition.

I do not often laugh out loud at things I read, but in this case my chortling actually startled the noseless, chain-smoking guy (don't ask) sitting near me at the diner counter.

"Despite their differences?" Falwell must be referring to the fact that the people on that list are not literally the same person. But, perhaps I am being too harsh.

I mean, that is a diverse group of past speakers. Three white, conservative men and one black, conservative man. It's a regular Rainbow Coalition. Frankly, I hope the students at Liberty University can handle the shock of seeing John McCain at the podium after having grown accustomed to the likes of Poppy Bush and Ronald Reagan's attorney general.