Letter to the Editor

Your view: Appalled by comment

Monday, January 26, 2004

Re: Speech of Department of Public Safety Director, Charles Jackson

Dear Editor:

Public Safety Director Charles Jackson should have done his homework lessons on the speeches of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. before attempting to compare himself to this man of non-violence and peace. Director Jackson was quoted as urging parents to spank children as an answer to youth problems. Dr. King would be appalled. Dr. King's eldest daughter, Yolanda, has described her father [Miami Herald 4/1/2000] as "a gentle man who filled her life with laughter and who did not believe in spanking his four children." Research studies consistently show that children who are brought up with corporal punishment are more likely to commit crime, not less likely. I wish Director Jackson well in his new position, but I also wish he would base his statements on facts, on solid research, not his own personal opinions.

Robert Fathman, Ph.D., Co-Chair

EPOCH-USA: End Physical Punishment of Children office: 614-766-6688, or home: 614-798-0031

5805 Tarton Circle N.

Dublin, Ohio 43017

www.stophitting.com