It is very saddening that every year that I have been at NC State a hate crime has occurred. Whether the message has been directed towards a group such as the GLBT community or a particular race, we can all agree that it makes the institution as a whole look bad. I believe in life we have to pick and choose our fights but these occurrences are happening too frequently for there not to be a solution or response to combat this issue. After each of these occurrences, there have been several discussions and meetings to develop the response of the University. My hope is that this time, we will make it known that even though NC State is known for being conservative, we will not allow acts that put down other individuals because of their race, ethnicity, beliefs, sexuality, or personal convictions. In the past, our Free Expression Tunnel has allowed people to express their opinions whether they are hurtful, offensive, or degrading. However, this time, a hate crime was plastered on an annoucement board outside of the GLBT Center , vandalizing NC State’s property.

Even though I am sure we are all saddened, frustrated, and angry about yet another hate crime, I think it is still important for us to remain true to ourselves and our morals. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” We should stand up for what we believe in but do so with dignity and respect.

– Shaniqua Taylor

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