Thursday morning, March 21, 10:09 a.m., I sit down to take in a bit of news from around the BU community. Much to my dismay and annoyance, I find the paper smattered with references to the Guest Policy. I sit and ponder and conclude that, yes, the BU Guest Policy is problematic. It doesn’t allow us students the freedom to come and go as we please. This fact is indisputable, despite what any BU official might say. And yes, I moved off-campus this past year for this reason among others. So, I agree with the majority of the student body. The BU Guest Policy should be revised.

Further reflections: I wonder why this policy is so important. Yes, it would be wonderful to be able to sign-in people at any time of the day and to have a more lenient overnight guest policy, but why on earth does this receive so much attention in the face of the larger issues at hand? I think back to past weeks, past months, when The Daily Free Press and some students here on campus focused on more important things, such as the discrimination on campus. At that time, unless my memory fails me, I did not see such a rally and push for change. In fact, it seemed to me a passing thought. I ask you, BU, is concern for others just a passing thought in our everyday lives? How often do we as a campus community speak out on such injustices, let alone make strides toward change? I think I can say with much confidence that this is an infrequent occurrence. How often do you hear about the low minority enrollment at BU? When did you last hear of the discrimination against the gay and lesbian community? And how often do you hear of individuals facing oppression, other than students in these groups, taking a part in these fights? The answer to these questions: not very often.

I do not write this letter to criticize, as ultimately, where does criticism get us? I wish to inspire desire and excitement here on campus and to strike down the apathy plaguing this institution, its students and faculty. I want to see change on this campus, and I see this as entirely possible. I have seen in the past and still see each day the passion in the student body, and I applaud you for holding such strong opinions. I simply ask that you consider expanding your views and actually acting upon those things for which you care so deeply. I could sit and write all day about the problems I see on this campus. But then again, what would that do but frustrate me?

I too am guilty of too often sitting by and waiting for others to act, and it’s not working. That obviously isn’t bearing much fruit. I urge you to remove yourself from your own personal existence, your own little bubble you’ve created, and examine the larger issues of this campus, this city, this nation and this world. We might not have all the liberties that we desire, like an ideal guest policy, but we sure do have a lot. The amount of privilege and wealth emanating from this campus could save a city, maybe even a nation. Wake up BU! You’re not the only ones suffering! Join the fight and bask in the glory of positive change. Or you can just sit back and bask in reflected glory. It’s your choice. Either way, there WILL be change on this campus. And remember, faith without action is dead (wise words from my friend James). Let the work begin today.