For decades the graffiti wall has been used to advertise clubs and organizations, announce birthdays, speakers or musical guests, support political figures, protest political actions and even propose marriage. Although it is considerably smaller now than in previous years due to the building of Bentley Annex during the 2002-2003 school year, it continues its tradition as a forum for student expression.
In the early '60s student groups and organizations began using the space to advertise meetings and gatherings, and in the '70s the wall was used to express political and social messages, said Betty Hollow, assistant director of instruction at the Academic Advancement Center and author of Ohio University 1804-2004: The Spirit of A Singular Place.
I think the wall had been used for everything and there has always been controversy surrounding it
Hollow said, especially now with groups such as Swarm of Dykes and other gay and lesbian associations and people informally censoring them by painting over their messages at night.
Nicole Long, treasurer for Swarm of Dykes, said just the name of the organization causes controversy.
I think the graffiti wall is a great venue for getting our message across
but with a name like Swarm of Dykes
we get some hateful things written on the wall
Long said. We've seen our name painted over
name crossed out on the wall
as well as 'Die Dykes' and other death-related and homophobic comments spray painted.
Despite the sometimes-negative response, Long said the graffiti wall is still a positive medium to get their message across.
We use the wall to promote special events such as Pride Week and to endorse special issues. We painted the wall in support for domestic partner benefits as well as other political issues
Long said.
Jim Hintz, coordinator for student affairs in the Office of Off Campus Housing, served as president of Student Senate during the graffiti wall's transition.
I remember when (the university) decided to build the Bentley Annex
they said they couldn't do it without tearing down the graffiti wall ...There were a lot of alumni who were upset about that
and I think that prompted the university to really think about building something else or having something in its place actually replacing the graffiti wall
