By Robert Binger

The University’s chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) held a town hall type meeting on Feb. 22 for students to voice their concerns. “Our school, our voice,” their posters around campus declared.

Students discussed varying issues ranging from the food on campus to quality of Public Safety. Issues were presented by attendees to a panel of the students running the campus’s NAACP chapter, who plan to communicate to the appropriate sections of campus administration.

Attendees including representatives from a variety of clubs and members of SGA were there to contribute to the discussion. University employees also attended to express their views.

Many students had concerns involving prices on campus including food, residency, as well as textbooks. They shared stories about how they receive little money for textbooks at the end of the year, and how sanitation and privacy are key issues for them. Anecdotes included the despicable states of bathrooms in towers, highlighting filthy shower curtains and mold.

When discussing Public Safety, students told stories of their friends being attacked on campus and not being given assistance from officers within an appropriate distance to lend assistance. Response time for the officers was a main complaint.

Racism was also a key issue for many in attendance. Some expressed that they encountered racism in their residence halls and other places on campus.  

While there were representatives from clubs and the University there, the venue was not filled to capacity. However, the panel listened intently and encouraged free expression to properly address students’ concerns to the administration soon.