The tuition hike -
There are those students of the university who felt a void - those who subconsciously felt that they were missing out by being a college student in the 21st century. These students harbor a need to fulfill their 1960s fantasies of petitions, rallies, protests, sit-ins and vigils.
With the pending $1200 tuition increase, these students finally have something to stand against. How lucky they are.
Finally it's time. Time to make signs. Time to rally. Time for microphones, bullhorns, flyers, chants and protest music - time for the "leaders" to emerge and voice the opinion of the students. Time to make a difference. Time to get results.
I think it's time for something else. It's time to open your eyes.
Of course we are all opposed to the tuition increase, but will a petition of college kids stop it? No. Will a few anti-hike signs stop it? No. Will a candle light vigil stop it? No. Will a "hike" to Albany stop it? No. Passive resistance is ridiculous.
The tuition increase is inevitable. Roll your signs back up. Blow out your candles. And turn your nostalgic protest music down. As commendable as it is for you to march in the cold there is only one way that you can truly protest the increase - by leaving the school.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
