In response to your Perspective cover of April 27, let’s take a look at the facts.

Mike Simpson received an offensive letter from Rep. Tom Shields, sarcastically suggesting ways to commit suicide with heroin, a loaded gun, etc. Mike exercised his First Amendment right in going public.

In response, Shields supporters called Mike a “crybaby,” telling him to “deal with it,” while denouncing me as unprofessional.

Is it unprofessional to construct an academic activity that has real-life implications and encourage students to become involved in public affairs? Guilty as charged.

Am I unprofessional for not promoting one viewpoint over another, but encouraging independent thought supported by facts? Again, guilty.

As an educator for 26 years, I have helped many students write letters, petitions, donate money, food and time to causes of their choice, not mine.

Over time, I have collected many responses from officials. Never have I seen such a condescending reply.

As a taxpayer, I was appalled that it came from an Auburn representative.

In contrast, Sen. Olympia Snowe replied to numerous pro-life letters politely yet firmly in opposition.

My students know that word choices are key to the success of any argument, that condescension will alienate rather than enlighten. Perhaps Rep. Shields could learn something from them.

This is not a debate about euthanasia, but about the manner in which an elected official responded to a student.

Knowledge is power. Auburn people now have more information about their representative.

Candy Gleason, Auburn