Green Bay Press-Gazette - Moore visit sparks local debate

Green Bay Press-Gazette - Moore visit sparks local debateMichael Moore stirred up controversy across the nation with his latest film, “Fahrenheit 9/11.”

Now he is igniting a local debate among some who question a decision made by student leaders at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay to invite Moore to campus later this month and why student fees are being used to help pay for his visit.

“We’re not too happy about him coming here because we don’t feel this is an appropriate place for Michael Moore to speak and to use our funds to do it with,” said John Kumm, a 22-year-old senior and chairman of the College Republicans at UWGB.

Calls to UWGB officials about Moore’s speaking fee weren’t returned Friday. But university officials have said Moore’s fee includes no taxpayer funds and will be covered by ticket fees for his visit and money from the segregated fees account. Segregated fees are paid by students and cover a host of campus operations.

Kumm said the group is trying to get the event canceled and, if that doesn’t happen, they will stage a protest on the day of the event.

“I don’t think the university paid attention to who they were bringing in or the possible backlash that could happen,” he said.

By Cynthia Hodnett
chodnett@greenbaypressgazette.com