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Unfair Union Criticism

Boston University is not a great facilitator of change. That should not be a surprise to anyone who knows the history of the Guest Policy. Despite the overwhelming abhorrence of the current Guest Policy, there have not been any modifications made since 1989. After my initial shock and contempt at the situation upon my transfer to Boston University, I was told by upperclassmen that administration “does not listen to students.” After expressing an interest to test this theory, RAs told me, “Trying to change the policy would be a waste of time.” While yesterday’s editorial, entitled “A half-hearted attempt,” seems to understand the mammoth task of creating change at BU, it unfairly criticizes the sincere effort of newly appointed Union President Coseglia and the Student Perspectives Committee.

Over the past few weeks, the Union, under the leadership of Coseglia, has worked hard to accomplish the goals set forth by the Real slate. Early this semester, Coseglia approached BU Free, an organization committed to modifying the Guest Policy, in an effort to share resources in the effort to modify the Guest Policy. Since then, BU Free and the Student Union have been creating a solid proposal for BU administration. For instance, the proposal can not simply state as the editorial does that, “the Guest Policy is regarded as a high priority by much of the BU student body.” Otherwise administration would tout their own data stating 60 percent of the student body is in favor of current policy. The committee has had to gather empirical data to prove otherwise; and it did. The proposal itself, despite what is stated in yesterday’s editorial, contains information compiled from students, parents, BUPD and the safety records and guest polices of other schools. I assure you the proposal is thorough. Whether or not the proposal is successful in modifying the current Guest Policy this year, the Student Union has helped to create a proposal of which the BU student body should be proud.

There are few things I want more than to have no need to continue BU Free’s efforts next semester. However, the many leaders and members of BU Free are ready for the long haul. We are convinced changing the policy must be a shared effort unconcerned with timeliness of success. The proposal that is being created at present is merely the beginning. Ideally, it would be the end. Criticizing the Student Union as it helps to lay this essential groundwork is unfair and a misdirection of effort.

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