Ayers draws applause, protests

Former 1960s radical William Ayers would have spoken at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln exactly a year ago today, and he still would like that opportunity.

The cancellation of his Nov. 15, 2008, appearance at UNL compelled the Academic Freedom Coalition of Nebraska to give Ayers the podium Saturday at its annual meeting in Omaha.

Ayers received a standing ovation in the meeting room at the Holiday Convention Centre, and protests outside.

At least a dozen people held signs on the sidewalk, conveying messages that Ayers “still hates America” and that this nation needs to “stand for American values.”

“Practice responsible free speech,” said the green placard held by Janice Rustia of Omaha. “What would Reagan do?” was the messaage on the sign belonging to Park Blaine of the Elkhorn area.

Ayers encouraged his audience of about 85 to question, challenge, engage in dialogue and think for oneself.

“In a democracy, we search, we find, we investigate, we interrogate,” Ayers, 65, told the audience.

More than 40 years ago, Ayers helped lead the Weather Underground, which protested the Vietnam War by bombing public buildings such as the Pentagon and U.S. Capitol.

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