Gathered in the basement of the Boilerhouse at North Central College on April 12, students and faculty discussed ways to more appropriately voice their opinions. That is, other than writing controversial messages in chalk on the campus sidewalks.
The meeting, led by NCC Mosaic, was in response to “chalkings” across campus sidewalks. President Troy Hammond also attended to discuss student activism at NCC.
The meeting brought forward a variety of ideas, including hosting a panel or debate made up of many diverse viewpoints. A more popular idea was to make a diversity-oriented video.
Jimmy Bright (19’) commented on the video idea saying that, “it would be immensely more impactful if it was from North Central peers.”
“I’m just frustrated,” said Samuel Perez (’17). Perez continued on asking, “How long are we going to talk before someone does something about it? Before the ideas coming from the CORE group take action?”
Perez also commented on an email concerning student activism that was sent by President Hammond to the student body. “To me, his words aren’t enough. We need to see some real action,” said Perez.
Manilyn Gumapas (’18), who led the NCC Mosaic discussion, had a different perspective. “I think he (President Hammond) realizes that he walks a very unique tightrope and there’s only so much he can say without being too partial to one side of the conversation or the other,” said Gumapas.
Emily Alaimo (’18), who was also at the meeting, said, “I think it is important to have these discussions.”
