Join debate; don’t stop it
Student-group funding (“Money Down the Drain,” ODE, Feb. 7) gives groups a better shot at achieving their goals. Few would argue with that. Although, many might disagree with the groups. How many student groups do you agree or disagree with? Who knows, you might even be a member of a student organization that disagrees with another student organization.
There is a wide variety of groups out there. But whether you take the opportunity or not, issues — and students’ organizing — will still exist, and you have the opportunity, as everyone does, to organize around issues too. You could work on issues that affect people across the state or the country or the world.
Student fees help make those opportunities happen. It’s like having a ticket to a giant amphitheater where you can play a part.
Still, some disagree not only with the student group but also with the idea of supporting groups at all. Would you deny your fellow student the opportunity to express themselves in class? Would you close down the business school because you study science?
Please, participate in the debate; don’t try and stop it. If something new frightens you, learn more about it. Knowledge like this, available in this “marketplace of ideas,” can change your mind or reaffirm the views you already had. You will find other people you agree with or respectfully disagree with, but you will always find people organizing. You will find people organizing in the real world too.

Ryan Messick

junior

business