In the senate meeting on Wednesday, March 13, Sen. Caine Lowery presented to the senate a resolution condemning hate speech “which creates an unsafe environment for students and participants at PSU.” There was little discussion about the issue, as it was called to question before all debate had subsided. The senators were not given individual copies of the resolution for review. A friendly amendment offered by Sen. Justice McPherson was denied which would have included “political affiliation” in the list of traits that would be protected from hate speech. Also, there was no discussion on the effect of the senate’s disapproval, or actions the senate would take should our resolution be challenged. I was one of two individuals who voted against this resolution, and I am concerned with the social implications of this in the context of PSU’s progressive environment and recent events.
The way the senate chooses between the topics it discusses at length and the ones it barrels through with no consideration is baffling. I must admit, I am proud to be a member of what I am sure is the most politically correct senate ever here at PSU. However, I have to say that I’m a little afraid of any organization that considers itself a moral authority while its own members have attempted to commit crimes of violence and have repeatedly spoken threatening words, even in the middle of a presentation of an official document condemning such language from being a part of acceptable public discourse. That is the extent of my argument against the resolution. I am glad that the resolution passed on its own merits, as it encompasses a noble ideal.
However, I am disturbed about the dynamics that have come out of the senate meeting. I know very well what everyone is thinking when they see only two white males voting no on a resolution against a hate speech. I am tired of the assumptions that my skin color is the reason behind my political beliefs. The racial and minority overtones of so much of what has happened in the recent past have been driving down on me, confusing me, leaving me behind. I think it is a debate that should be had in public, but is only happening in private meetings and casual discussions.
I am scared of the force of the passion underlying these issues. I respect this force and the authority with which every participant presents their needs and ideas, but I see this urgency causing a crisis in the ability of the student body and its representatives to deal openly with these issues. Politics is becoming entangled with the Ideals and Administration and Personality. Difficulties over little things become webs of mistrust. I am na퀌�ve concerning the subtleties of the relationships and issues, but I feel as if there is a vast gulf of misunderstanding, and every time I ask for clarification I am told that my ignorance has already disqualified me form the ability to ever understand at all.
After the senate meeting (March 13) I don’t know who I might of offended, or how. I don’t know what people think I believe, and that concerns me. I have been so full of love and life because of all the wonderful things at PSU. These recent events, however, are a drain on my ability to know others and be known as I am. This is a letter of regret, not of my actions, but for the action I haven’t taken and conversations I haven’t had.
To better understanding through love and affiliation.
Justin Myers
ASPSU senator