College education doesn’t just provide young adults with morning classes and unlimited green tea shots; college is where students grow to shape their values. It’s the education we pay for. More specifically, it’s where we become adults who vote and contribute to society.
Penn State’s history of protest and political discussion on campus has undoubtedly inspired many to leave a lasting impact on the school’s reputation and spirit.
Penn State Spirit
Our beloved school is full of opportunities to raise awareness and improve engagement. One of Penn State’s most notable achievements is THON, the annual dance marathon that raises money for pediatric cancer treatment.
Penn State also provides chances for students and residents to voice their concerns on political and societal issues. Even if you are unfamiliar with the university, missing a protester somewhere on campus is almost impossible. Whether it’s the Willard preacher or campaigners for the presidential election; political discourse is nearly everywhere.
The Origins
The first protest organized in downtown State College was on December 10, 1948. It was against the discriminatory practices of six barbershops. With hundreds of students’ help, this event became the first major civil rights movement in Penn State.
Since then, many political gestures have made their mark on campus–both literally and figuratively. For example, “Students for Justice in Palestine” placed white flags on the HUB lawn to memorialize Palestinians and call out Penn State for the lack of funding for their cause. Other campaigns, for the recent presidential election, have been held on West College Avenue.
Differing Opinions
This aspect of campus has sparked a lot of attention, good and bad. For many, it is difficult to watch or listen to individuals who speak on a topic they don’t agree with. In regards to the Palestinian memorial on the HUB lawn, anti-Palestinian students have been in severe trouble since recording themselves destroying the memorial.
Although Pennsylvania is a swing state, there has been a question among students of whether there is a certain bias within Penn State as an institution. In fact, President Donald Trump visited the Bryce Jordan Center when campaigning for his candidacy.
In the same time frame that right-wing political commentator Charlie Kirk arrived on the HUB lawn, the Daily Collegian newsstands were taken down for featuring an advertisement with Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris.
We Are (Penn State)
Despite these few incidents, it is safe to say that Penn State has been a beacon of light for those who want their voice heard. Our school tries to encourage diversity not only with a wide variety of organizations representing every background but also through conversation.
Regardless of political views or cultural stances, “We Are” a part of a community that holds more value than we can ever comprehend.
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