The decision by Carleton Lifeline members to scale back some of their original claims against Carleton is a wise move, but perhaps a better option would be to drop their lawsuit completely.
On Oct. 4 2010, after setting up a graphic visual display in the Tory quad comparing abortion to various genocides, such as the Holocaust, Lifeline members were asked to re-locate to Porter Hall. They were also offered a table in the atrium to direct people to their display. After refusing to move, five Lifeline members were arrested, prompting a lawsuit against university administration.
Despite narrowing their claims, they are maintaining their original claims against the university, saying their right to free speech was violated, and claiming negligence against safety director Allan Burns and president Roseann Runte.
Lifeline members claim they were treated unfairly because they have a controversial message. This is a common complaint of pro-life groups.
But by continuing with this lawsuit, they are diverting focus from their own cause. Rather than drawing attention to pro-life campaigns, they are gaining attention for their court case. Rather than recruiting supporters, they have distanced much of the student body with their inflammatory tactics. It’s a waste of time, money and energy to persecute Carleton administration based on a sole incident for which many people feel administration was justified.
Since filing the lawsuit Feb. 26, they have received widespread media coverage.
Now that they have the forum they wanted, why aren’t they trying to spread their message?