I agree, @MindLife. I’ve seen my share of “frat behavior” - both harmless and harmful - yet I also know the current pressure to use the Academy to dole out consequences that have not been reported nor treated as an actual crime and which target innocent people in the sweep of accusations. There is obviously a LOT of gray area here. That’s why it’s important to stand up and use social (not university) pressure to monitor behavior. By staying away is NOT to mean ignore the problem - far from it! Shun those who perpetuate this culture and make your lack of presence felt. This is NOT a private matter by any means. It’s one that needs public attention and public condemnation. But the university is not the right avenue for that - the students themselves are.
Any benefits such as property tax exemption and so forth should be addressed to the local taxing authority. Another example of needing to take the problem to the right party to help solve.
Lord knows, I am not an advocate for any university setting itself up to be the sex police. A review of my CC postings would prove that many times over.
But anyone who says that the answer to sexual assault issues between college students is to report them to the police or to complain to state tax authorities . . . I would like either to sell you the Brooklyn Bridge at a bargain price, or to offer you a spot on Vladimir Putin’s PR team.
Why, @JHS? Because the Chicago PD are ineffective and won’t investigate? Because if the victim provides a statement at the hospital after an examination verifying the sex assault, the doctors and authorities won’t believe her and follow through? As a long-term parent familiar with both Hyde Park authorities and University of Chicago, perhaps you have some good advice on this issue? You’ve just made clear what WON’T work. What WILL, in your opinion?
Meh. A handful of students see some genuine problems and propose (“demand”) solutions that may be unrealistic, idealistic or excessive.
Happens all the time, on hundreds of college campuses, every year. Not really big news.
ps - I hope the frats get the message and grow up a little. The should have fun, but the last thing UChicago needs to emulate is the worst aspects of frat-boy culture that unfortunately are all to common at some other elite schools.