Pro-Life Club Makes Voice Heard

The beginning of Winter Quarter is often a hectic time for students. But for Stanford Students for Life (SSFL), January is by far the busiest month of the year. The club’s commitment to upholding the dignity of human life from conception until natural death may represent a little-heard message at the university; nevertheless, in the past several weeks, SSFL has made its presence felt in a large way, both on campus and in the broader community.

Editor's Note: Fostering the Dialogue

It seems serendipitous that the 36th volume of The Stanford Review should debut amidst one of the most crucial and electrifying times in the history of student publications at Stanford University. During the next few weeks, the University must decide whether to yield to students’ desire for door-to-door distribution.

Revisiting Affirmative Action

Many groan when affirmative action comes up in conversation. “Aren’t we done talking about that already?” they ask. Its long history as a media darling unfortunately detracts from interest in discussing the topic. However, as the composition of the Supreme Court changes and Stanford increasingly moves to implement color-conscious programs, affirmative action once again merits investigation.

Hamas at a Crossroads

On January 25th, in a triumphant display of patriotism, 77% of eligible Palestinians swarmed to the polls to cast their votes for the parliamentary elections. They rallied, they voted, they anticipated the result, and they elected Hamas. Democracy is on the march! This is a step towards breaking the shackles of authoritarianism that bind the Middle East. But what is democracy?

Door-to-Door Policy Violates First Amendment Rights

Rob Corry, Attorney-at-Law, told Stanford University to change its policy on door-to-door distribution or face consequences. A letter that Robert Corry sent to President Hennessy is reprinted here. Corry represents a group of Stanford students that believe their rights are threatened by the current door-to-door distribution policy.

Free Speech: Handle With Care

Danish embassies lie in ashes. Scandinavian flags have been burned the world over. Arab countries are boycotting Danish goods. Many commentators are speaking of a clash of civilizations between the West and Islam. All of this, precipitated by a bunch of cartoons.

Long Live Lightfoot!

Politically charged student debate has recently emerged around the reappearance of Stanford University’s former mascot, the Indian. Following the display of several t-shirts featuring the former Indian logo—replete with original details: feathers, braided hair, and bulbous-nose—the Stanford American Indian Organization (SAIO) has initiated a formal protest of the mascot’s use to President Hennessy.