Monday, Feb. 16, I picked up a copy of the Iowa State Daily, as I often do.

To my surprise and disgust, I found a picture of two gay men kissing on the front page.

I would like to clear some things up before I begin: I am not against gays or lesbians — that is not for me to judge.

I do, however, believe in having the right to read material distributed freely to university students without offensive content.

I consider this picture to be offensive, both to me and my beliefs.

No picture of two people kissing in such a way should be in this, or any, newspaper, whether the individuals are gay or straight.

I am appalled as how a picture such as this one would even be published.

Was “the kiss” necessary?

I believe it would have had a stronger, additionally positive message behind this article had the picture been of people enjoying the Midwest Bisexual,Lesbian, Gay, Transgender and Ally College Conference and its activities.

I understand that awareness was the intent of this article, but, for example, when trying to show the sanctity of marriage, it isn’t portrayed by showing a married couple having sex.

Whenever I hear anything said about the conference last weekend, the first thing on my mind is the negative image portrayed by the picture in the Iowa State Daily.

That portrait completely counteracted the purpose of the article.

Do not think I am not trying to discriminate or to judge a homosexual lifestyle, because I’m not.

I firmly believe this picture was published in poor judgment by the Daily.

Sensationalism sells, but is it necessary for a university newspaper?

Matt Kuker

Sophomore

Computer Engineering