Over the past few weeks, an interesting trend has emerged amongst the pages of our student newspaper. No, it’s not the continued trend of a consistent magnifying glass on the Machine, IFC pledgeship or the SGA. It is a trend of language choices – specific language that has been criticised by some readers as obscene and offensive.
The n-word and f-bomb have both been printed over 50,000 times, circulating to the hands of students, faculty, Tuscaloosa citizens, and of course, the Internet. Editor-in-Chief Will Tucker recently wrote a response to said criticism in which he pointed out that the First Amendment protects such speech, but we (he) must be cognizant of the readership when printing potentially offensive words.
I understand why Will chose to write his piece. If you ever feel like you have offended someone, you typically try and offer some explanation for your actions, specifically if you are in a leadership role.
Additionally, I understand why some students feel these words are not necessary, potentially divisive and lack appropriate filtration. Yet, I believe this should be the last time he apologizes or justifies his or any other student using expressive language to divulge their feelings.
Too often, we as students have our thoughts and speech limited to the confines of just our social groups and organizations. While certain classes offer students the opportunity to openly answer questions, enhance discussion and embrace debate, these combined few short minutes are not enough to fully flesh out beliefs and opinions.
Many of us come to college searching for the personal answers to life’s toughest questions. We are challenged on our belief system, morality and thought process as a whole. Yet, we are limited in the areas through which we can find these answers.
The Crimson White is the perfect avenue to answer these questions through student self-expression. We have been given the privilege to write on student issues with very minimal interference. The speech within these pages is only limited to the boldness of the author and editorial staff. By allowing speech to flow freely in the paper, students have an avenue that was previously uncharted and restricted.
These words and feelings are not just felt by the ones typing the article. They are reflective of many students who feel the same pain, anger or excitement over particular issues. Yet, not all of our peers have been given the opportunity to broadcast to a larger audience. As writers in this student-run newspaper, we must boldly express their and our true words and true feelings.
I have at times felt myself shaping my articles, and my words, to make sure they are politically correct. Being politically correct is not a bad thing as long as it does not change the honesty of your message. However, we should not hold up the red card to students who print or say words simply because we find them inappropriate or offensive.
Many of the words printed have history and character that I do not understand. They cut deep into previous scars and bring back memories people do not want to relive. Consequently, if we are afraid to speak openly and honestly in our newspaper, then we will continue to limit the profound affects student speech can have.
You will probably not see me print strong language in any of my articles this year. Personally, I just do not want to deal with a phone call from my grandmother, who accesses them via her dialup AOL (yes, that still exists). However, I believe it is the right of each columnist, letter to the editor or interviewee to express themselves as freely as they are led. By no means should that result in Deadspin/Jezabel style journalism, but instead, a mutual understanding that this is a special arena for speech. And to take that away, well, that would just piss me off.
Davis Vaughn is a junior majoring in communication studies and political science. His column runs biweekly on Tuesdays. Follow Davis on Twitter @davisvaughn.
Leading in today’s Crimson White:
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