Diverse Opinions on Campus

This month I have been the captain of Penn's Open Expression Observers Team.  We have had a variety of events to staff and, on the 86th day of 2019, I was at an interesting one.  Sean Spicer came to campus to talk about the political scene, invited by the College Republicans.  Before that, still on 3/27/19, I was staffing Penn's University Council Open Forum, where we heard impassioned advocates for Veterans, cultural center staffing, changes to the proposed sexual harassment policy, and admissions policies for undocumented and DACA students.  But the most impassioned presentation was from a student with Fossil Free Penn who made an emotional case for divestment from stocks supporting fossil fuels in light of the changes the world is experiencing in its climate.  Late last week, we staffed a protest from Students and community members advocating for funding for Philadelphia Schools.  It was a month of varied views and emotions.  And that is why Penn is great.  I am grateful for the diverse opinions on campus (even the ones with which I do not agree).  I think, in these Internet-thick days, it is encouraging to see the varied ideas being discussed, in person, in a civil and serious manner.  Would that the rest if the world could follow suit.

Today's caring prayer is for my former advisee with whom I had lunch today.  She is about to start a degree in Education and plans to be a science teacher in the Philadelphia School District,  She is also working with Penn's Chemistry department to deliver content in a more holistic manner, especially to the more diverse student body that has been attending Penn in the past years.  Prayers of appreciation for her efforts and prayers of strength since it's not easy being a teacher, especially in Philadelphia!

The prayer for people with whom I disagree is for the College Republicans at Penn.  Although I agreed with very little that their speaker said today, I applaud them for bringing the diverse thoughts to campus and, as Spicer said (which I do agree with), the best thing folks can do to work across the aisle is to start listening to what the "other side" is saying.