Seize the chance to voice opinions
Observer Editorial
Perhaps it is because the weather is not favorable to sidewalk chalk wars. Perhaps it is because the football season has ended. Whatever the reason, cheers to Air Force ROTC, the College Democrats, the College Republicans, Notre Dame United Muslim Organization, Pax Christi and the Peace Coalition for their collective effort to raise discussion at Monday's panel about the Iraq situation.
At a time when foreign policy is a crucial topic, the University campus is an essential forum for conversation. It is refreshing to see student-led efforts for dialogue and debate come to fruition. What's more, the panel, though organized by the Peace Coalition, was comprised of students reflecting numerous sides of the argument.
The ideologically diverse panel represented varying political, religious and social views on the topic of war and international conflict, reminding all that foreign policy issues cannot be simplified. While it is easy for the average college student to obtain a synopsis of the current events, it is far more useful to take it one step further and analyze the complexities of those events in the appropriate setting.
The Observer has said before that the student groups on campus should channel their passions into dialogue. The student panel shows the willingness of some to get involved. The 100 students who trekked through inches of snow Monday evening to Reckers in order to take part in the conversation are an addition to the list. This student-led collaborative effort is yet another positive sign that many are interested in the world beyond 46556.
Upcoming events will give members of the Notre Dame community more opportunities to discuss current events. While the Iraq situation is one pertinent topic, campus discussions can cover many other areas, foreign and domestic. No matter the topic, hopefully students and faculty can make a concerted effort to fill the rooms and foster stimulating discussions.
All Viewpoint Stories for Friday, January 31, 2003
