Oxford goes Jacko wacko
MICHAEL JACKSON ADDRESSED the packed Union Debating Chamber last to launch his new children's foundation 'Heal the Kids'. He appeared together with Uri Geller and Rabbi Schmuley Boteach, who both also spoke.
And fans of the superstar descended on Oxford from all over the world for the chance to see their hero.
At times in tears during his forty minute speech, Jackson talked about his childhood, and in particular his relationship with his father as well as the childhood he hoped to give his own children. However he moved on to discuss the troubles afflicting the youth of today, who he called Generation O. O because this generation has "everything on the outside ' wealth, success, fancy clothing and fancy cars, but an aching emptiness on the inside." He also proposed a 'Children's Universal Bill of Rights' the tenets included-"The right to be listened to without having to be interesting" and "The right to be thought of as adorable (even if you have a face that only a mother could love)". At the end of his speech Jackson even donned a cap and gown. But little was said about what the charity would actually do and it has been reportedly asked by the Charity Commissioners to "clarify a number of issues"
The irony of Michael Jackson discussing childcare was not lost on many, and the Union has come under some fire for its choice of guest. Dan Johnson, Union Press Officer, commented that Jackson has a proven track record of charitable work, he had "done a lot of work for children and given a lot of money over the years" The hundreds of thousands of dollars paid to children he was accused of abusing were "malicious gossip".
The event was however marred slightly by the enormous queues that many had to endure in order to get into the event. This was despite the balloted ticket system. Many were angered by the wait and the fact they were not allowed to bring coats or bags which made, what was for some, more than an hour wait in the rain extremely unpleasant. The Union blamed Michael Jackson's entourage taking over security for the delays.
26th Apr 2001