Peace camp: more than peace
Issue date: 10/2/09 Section: Editorial
While Peace Camp has become symbolized by tents in Academic Quad each fall, the image may be hurting its own cause.
Those who have taken time to attend any of Peace Camp's events have had the chance to participate in the thought-provoking conversations facilitated by students, faculty and guests. The value of this annual week of discussions cannot be denied. However, despite the significance of what Peace Camp brings to our campus, further efforts could be made to attract more diverse demographics.
If the organizers of Peace Camp wish to see greater student and community participation, they must consider expanding beyond its current image. More than peace was discussed this week. This year's programming has covered topics ranging from sustainability to Lady GaGa.
If the emphasis on peace is a negative connotation for some, one way to generate more interest may be to focus more on the "camp" aspect. While organizers say anyone is welcome to pitch a tent in Academic Quad, generally only Compton Center interns take advantage of this fact (and only one did when one of our reporters was there). Why not invite more students to continue the conversations deep into the night by holding events at later times? If Peace Camp wishes to continue its valuable discussions while separating itself from other week-long discussions, it merits a re-examination of its structure.
Those who have taken time to attend any of Peace Camp's events have had the chance to participate in the thought-provoking conversations facilitated by students, faculty and guests. The value of this annual week of discussions cannot be denied. However, despite the significance of what Peace Camp brings to our campus, further efforts could be made to attract more diverse demographics.
If the organizers of Peace Camp wish to see greater student and community participation, they must consider expanding beyond its current image. More than peace was discussed this week. This year's programming has covered topics ranging from sustainability to Lady GaGa.
If the emphasis on peace is a negative connotation for some, one way to generate more interest may be to focus more on the "camp" aspect. While organizers say anyone is welcome to pitch a tent in Academic Quad, generally only Compton Center interns take advantage of this fact (and only one did when one of our reporters was there). Why not invite more students to continue the conversations deep into the night by holding events at later times? If Peace Camp wishes to continue its valuable discussions while separating itself from other week-long discussions, it merits a re-examination of its structure.
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