SGA deals with student protest aftermath

USD’s Student Government Association discussed a resolution Tuesday, condemning the manner in which the student protest was carried out at a USD Veterans Club memorial last week.

The resolution, which was drafted by Sen. Matt Blake, was amended during discussion to read that SGA “disapproves of the methods of the recent protest at the veterans’ memorial because the protesters did not follow proper university procedure.”

The senate discussed whether to introduce the resolution as emergency legislation, which would have allowed them to vote on it that night.

Senators were divided on the issue.

Ultimately the senate voted nine to six against introducing the resolution as emergency legislation. It was sent to the Student and Internal Affairs committee for review.

Sen. Cory Backer voted against the motion arguing that passing the resolution would only “add fuel to the fire.”

“By SGA shaking our finger at them and telling them not to exercising their right to protest – by addressing it, we’re giving them more attention than they deserve,” he said.
 

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3 comments

Craig Evenson

Wed Apr 28 2010 17:55

Mr. Feist, I have to concur. Thank you.

Jordan Feist

Wed Apr 28 2010 12:53

I introduced the amendment to clean up the language so that it was very clear that SGA was not upset about a group exercising their right to speech, but because that group did not have permission from the university to display signs on the lawn.

I was worried that this resolution would be construed as SGA scolding a group for protesting, but that's not what it was about. My goal was to let organizations know that they need to follow university guidelines and procedures. Because SGA is the governing body of these organizations, I thought it was important to address the issue and hold organizations accountable.

Unfortunately, some senators decided they wanted to back down from the issue and not address it in hopes of avoiding controversy. It is disheartening to see the lack of leadership from other senators who are not willing to take a stand against an organization that does not follow the rules. Furthermore, this decision not to address wrong-doing sets a precedent that organizations will not be held accountable by SGA.

Blaine Reynolds

Wed Apr 28 2010 08:15

So Sen. Baker what are you saying we shouldn't do anything? I am not being critical I just don't understand your quote, would you expand please?

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