Penn State suggests planners re-think immigration event

As the Penn State College Republicans move forward with plans to hold a controversial event on campus focused on immigration issues, the University administration is suggesting event organizers re-think their approach as a step toward fostering civility on campus.

The student-led event, "Illegal Immigration Awareness Day," is planned to be held on the University Park campus Wednesday, April 19. The provocative theme of the event as initially proposed has raised some concerns that linger among the campus community.

"As we've learned more about what was proposed, it's evident why many people would find this program offensive," said Terrell Jones, vice provost for educational equity. "The College Republicans certainly have a Constitutional right to conduct such an event, offensive as it may appear to some in the community. In protecting everyone's right to free expression, the University cannot censor the content of student-organized events."

The apparent focus of the event is to raise awareness of the issues surrounding the national debate over U.S. immigration policy as well as aspects of legal immigration. Students would be rewarded for obtaining information about illegal immigration from people wearing distinct clothing identifying them as game participants. This is a variation of the original idea, called "Catch an Illegal Immigrant Game."

"The nation's immigration policy is a legitimate topic for discussion and debate, and a university is clearly an ideal forum for such discourse. We encourage discussion on such issues," said Penn State President Graham B. Spanier. "However, the approach initially proposed by the College Republicans, while protected by the First Amendment, was unproductive and offensive to many."

"Penn State is committed to ensuring respect for the dignity of all individuals within the university family," added Vicky Triponey, vice president for student affairs. "The University continues to strive for a welcoming campus community. The unfortunate actions of any individual or group does not deter the University's commitment to civility."

While promoting free speech and expression, the University takes this opportunity to reiterate its clearly stated policy prohibiting acts of discrimination against any person because of age, ancestry, color, disability or handicap, national origin, race, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status. While not applicable to free speech and expression, the University will continue to enforce this policy and take action against members of the University community who have engaged in prohibited acts of discrimination.