Opinions

Editorial:
Sensitivity above censorship

While the purpose of the chalkings is to spark discussion and combat discrimination, often by offending people with the content of the chalkings, we doubt whether QA is conveying its message in the correct manner. The most effective way to combat discrimination may not be with discrimination. While Wednesday evening’s chalkings had many positive messages, there were also personal attacks against different groups and individuals on campus. Beta was dubbed the "Queer Fraternity;" Public Safety was renamed "Pubic Safety." One message in front of North College read "Fuck the Administration" while other messages personally attacked James Burke ’03, the controversial WesCeleb in the Sept. 26 Argus. 

Chalkings also make many community members feel uncomfortable. While we realize shock value is a key strategy of the chalkings, we feel the purpose must be clearly communicated for them to be effective. In the past, QA members have written Wespeaks explaining the goal of the chalkings prior to their application. This year no explanatory Wespeak was submitted. If students need to think too hard to understand the purpose of certain chalkings, then we feel it is to the detriment of QA’s mission. 

Queer Alliance demonstrates a very powerful tactic through the chalkings. We feel their message would be better understood if they made sure the community knew their intent and goals. A campus-wide email would be a great way to explain what the chalkings aim to convey. We feel communication is the best way for QA to effectively convey its message to students.