Greek Life

Tamar Shachaf
About you Editor

The University of West Georgia's student newspaper "The West Georgian" respects first amendment rights. The editor-in-chief permitted to publish an article by a staffer which was a satirical view of Greek life. The Student Government Assosciation and the Student Activity Fee Budget Allocation (SAFBA), it seems, did not agree that this article was appropriate. After the release of the article, which received thousands of views and comments, the SGA introduced and passed a bill to suspend funding for the paper.
Soon after the bill was passed, the SAFBA recommended to cut $11,500 from the budget of the newspaper. Though $7000 is cut because they fund an advisor, which is not allowed, the other $4500 are a mystery. The newspaper inquired into why the money was taken, yet minutes were not taken at any of the meetings and there seemed to be no reason. The only reason the SAFBA cited is that the West Georgian did not "meet the students' needs."
As a student newspaper, the West Georgian has to publish all views. Eventhough many did not agree with the Greek article it was still a perfectly acceptable article and use of free speech. The college should recognize that and be glad their paper is not censoring themselves. In a college world that is so full of Greek life it is neccessary to be reminded that it is not for everyone. The SAFBA and SAG should support the paper when it is being criticized because it is a part of their school and one of the most important parts.

https://www.splc.org/newsflash_archives.asp?id=1905&year=2009