Netlets: Party crashers, Uganda law and more

The Salahis truly overstepped

The writer of Dec. 1 Letter for the Day states that Michaele and Tareq Salahi "meant no harm, and did no harm -- other than getting publicity."

Sneaking into a state dinner at the White House does no harm? I hope someone sends the letter writer a top-quality moral compass for Christmas, the same brand the Salahis need to order for their own home.

DAVID JOHNSON, MINNEAPOLIS

Speak up against Uganda's violation of rights Today is International Human Rights Day, a day we honor a worldwide commitment to the rights and dignity all persons share. Yet, right now Uganda is on the brink of passing a law that would allow the execution of gay people who are so-called "repeat offenders."

Under the proposed law, gay rights supporters could be imprisoned and Ugandans in other countries could be extradited if they are thought to be gay. Uganda already punishes gay people with life imprisonment. This latest draconian proposal in Uganda is gaining international attention and is compelling actions.

Regardless of how any of us and our faith traditions view the role of gay people in our communion, it is time that conservative, mainline and progressive faith leaders work together to eliminate laws that take away life and liberty based on who one is and what one believes.

THE REV. REBECCA VOELKEL, MINNEAPOLIS

Obama's faulty plan for Afghanistan President Obama's speech last week on Afghanistan, as inspiring as it was, didn't make the cut for me. Here's why.

First, it is inconceivable to me that 30,000 troops will make a difference in a country of the size, terrain, population and ethnic conflict that is Afghanistan. Second, without a commitment on the part of Pakistan to work with us in a coordinated manner in the border areas, as in letting us cross the border as necessary and use drones based on reliable intelligence, success is simply not possible.

There is something missing here. We can only get to a solution if Pakistan is committed and Hamid Karzai is committed and credible. Since I've seen no sign of that, I cannot be a supporter of the Obama plan. And I really want to be on his team.

JOHN F. HETTERICK, PLYMOUTH

Apparently Stewart has not attended any of the Holidazzle parades attended by thousands of families every holiday season or the many family-friendly performances held at the theaters on Hennepin Avenue or the Target Center every year. And I doubt that the families whose children attend the Inter District Downtown School at Hennepin and 10th Avenue share his view as well.

Perhaps it would make better sense for the school board to locate "new digs" somewhere other than downtown; just don't base that decision on an untruth of what downtown is perceived by some to be.