As journalists, we obviously are expected to uphold First Amendment rights, particularly freedom of speech.

We are advocates of people speaking their minds and sharing their opinions, even if they are against the majority of others.

Students passing the bike path west of the Charles V. Park Library on Tuesday saw the First Amendment practiced to near perfection by Michael Venyah, founder of Soulwinners Ministries International.

Venyah told students that sins such as smoking cigarettes, listening to modern music and masturbating will send them to hell and that they “must stop sinning and do that which is according to the Scripture.”

Many students said he was out of line to say such things and that it goes beyond the realm of First Amendment rights. They’re wrong.

Nobody has to agree with what Venyah says. Many of us don’t.

But we do not condemn Venyah whatsoever for speaking his mind or expressing the views of Soulwinners. He may have bent his First Amendment rights when he pointed the finger and accused those around him, but he never broke them.

As United States citizens, we have to respect his right to free speech and allow Venyah to speak his mind, even if his opinions are completely different from ours.

Soulwinners is scheduled to speak at that same bike path throughout the week, and it’s not like students have no choice but to pass through the bike path to get anywhere on campus.

If you are upset with Venyah’s views and don’t want to hear him, walk down Washington Street or the path on the other side of the library. Avoid him.

It’s a much easier solution to your problems than trying to tell him he’s wrong. Or if you prefer, it’s your right to speak against the preachers’ intolerant messages.

In fact, we think Venyah is practicing something most student don’t do enough – taking action for what he believes in.

Many students criticize Topinabee senior Dennis Lennox II for some of his actions, but at least he files complaints when he feels somebody has done something wrong.

Students should better take advantage of their First Amendment rights, just like what Venyah is doing. Speak out.

Take action, even if that means trying to tell the administration about Venyah’s supposed “wrongdoings” and how he might be interfering with your education.

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