think or thwim

The Presidential Scholars program was started in 1964 to honor some of the nation’s top High School graduates. Every year the President meets the group. This year’s group handed him a folded piece of paper that said this:

Mr. President.

As members of the presidential scholars class of 2007, we have been told that we represent the best and brightest of our nation. Therefore, we believe we have a responsibility to voice our convictions. We do not want America to represent torture. We urge you to do all in your power to stop violations of the human rights of detainees, to cease illegal renditions and to apply the Geneva Convention to all detainees, including those designated enemy combatants.

It was signed by 50 of the 150 Presidential Scholars.

Here’s an interview with Leah Anthony Libresco and Mari Oye who gave him the letter.