The Voice
As time goes on from the tragedy of Sept. 11,there still are no words to express the depth of our nation’s sorrow and how this has ripped through every American heart. But as we mourn the loss of every life, we should allow ourselves to be inspired and lifted by the stories of courage from members of our community. It is not a time for increase in hate crimes just to add more pain into an open wound. President George W. Bush wants Americans to move on from this experience, not to forget, but life needs to go on.
Georgia College & State University’s officials found that statement to be exact this week as we hosted our annual International Week to show the broad variety of students on campus. It is a reminder that just because we are not from the United States doesn’t mean we are a terrorist.
When students come to GC& SU, they are given a handbook about classes, the honor code, and the expectations as a student, as well as many other useful tools to help in their education here. Everyone looks over the handbook word for word, but as a refresher, in the student expectations section it states that students are expected to achieve and maintain high ideals founded on the sound principles of utilizing REASON before acting or reacting; employing RESPECT for others, for ideas, for the law, and for property; and recognizing their RESPONSIBILITY as citizens and members of the campus community. Among other things, one point of reference in the handbook is that as students, we should acquire an inquisitive mind; respect for human diversity and individuality; a sense of civic and global responsibility; and sound ethical principles. All this can be found online at http://www.gcsu.edu/student_affairs/Student_Handbook/expectations/expectations.html.
Right now in America, we can be embarrassed at all the hate crimes that are being committed against of different nationalities in response to Sept. 11. People are people, and we can learn from them instead of being ignorant. Ignorance is defined as the state or fact of being ignorant, or a lack of knowledge or learning. This definition reminds us that ignorance is stupidity, and that is not why you come to college. Our purpose here is to be educated on all aspects of life, especially diversity in America and the work force. Having diversity can only enhance our experience here at Georgia College & State University.
The bottom line is we can not hold a grudge against someone who had nothing to do with the “Strike on America.” Holding Bin Laden and his followers responsible is one thing, but students who are our friends or acquaintances is another. The world as a whole has given us support and feels our pain, for a day that will be remembered forever.
A good video clip on the web to show world support can be found at http://users.lanminds.com/bblackie/sept11/compassion.html.
International Week was fun for all. Check out your fellow students, and have an inquiring mind.
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Posted by Colonnade Archives
on Oct 26 2001. Filed under Our Voice.
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