Reno urges CIPA students to forge policy protecting liberty and security

Former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno speaks with students in Caldwell Hall during an informal luncheon, Nov. 11, sponsored by the Cornell Institute for Public Affairs. Robert Barker/University Photography

Former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno challenged a gathering of master's students at the Cornell Institute for Public Affairs (CIPA) to forge public policy that "protects national liberties and national security at the same time." Comparing the Patriot Act and the situation of uncharged prisoners at Guantanamo Bay to the internment of the Japanese during World War II, Reno lamented that it sometimes takes 50 years for America to gain perspective on its actions.

On the Cornell campus through Nov. 15, Reno was completing her final visit as a Frank H.T. Rhodes Class of '56 University Professor. At the luncheon Nov. 11, Reno answered a broad range of policy questions from CIPA students. Moving effortlessly from topic to topic, Reno discussed issues of immigration and security, educational policy, elder care and affirmative action.

Responding to a question about the bipartisan anger that divides this country, Reno emphasized the role that the university could play in encouraging rational debate. She urged students to use scientific facts and studies to fight the demagoguery of political clashes. In Reno's opinion, sound data from research institutions such as Cornell can be invaluable in moving policy issues beyond the limits of partisan loyalty and into the realm of educated inquiry.

When asked how policy should shape the future of public education in this country, Reno said that the development of early childhood education is key. The Bush administration's current "no child left behind" philosophy sounds good but lacks the financial backing to make a substantial difference, she said. "If we can afford $87 billion for Iraq, we can afford to invest in our educational system," Reno argued. She cited studies that show many learning problems can be offset by early intervention.

A 1960 Cornell graduate with a bachelor's degree in chemistry, Reno was the first woman to serve as the attorney general of the United States and was the longest serving attorney general since before the Civil War. She held that position from 1993 until 2000 during the administration of President Bill Clinton, directing the world's largest justice and federal law-enforcement office.