Wright Banned at Northwestern

I'm no fan of Rev. Jeremiah Wright (see my other blog here), but the decision by Northwestern University to revoke an honorary degree to him is disturbing. Most disturbing of all is the explanation offered by the university: "In light of the controversy around Dr. Wright and to ensure that the celebratory character of Commencement not be affected, the University has withdrawn its invitation." Controversy is a terrible reason for any university to refuse to grant an honorary degree. The idea that Commencement is merely a "celebratory" event is also questionable. And why does controversy ruin a celebration? Perhaps Wright didn't deserve an honorary degree, but once a university has followed proper procedures and granted one, it should never withdraw such an offer merely because the recipient is "controversial."