Ohio University Student Senate executives hope to open Wednesday’s meeting with a "Student Speakout" addressing the graffiti that has appeared across campus this week.
On Tuesday, OU's graffiti wall, which was previously covered with a mural of an African safari, was found painted with a depiction of a hanged figure, the URL “iraqbodycount.org/database” and the phrase “build the wall.” It was later repainted with the exception of the hanged figure and “build the wall,” and the phrases "#isracismatOU?," "#blacklivesmatter" and “Racism will not be tolerated” were added.
On Monday, "Justice 4 Tyre King" was painted on and around many buildings around campus.
“We stress that all students can come to Student Speakout and talk about it, because it is an issue that impacts every student,” Chief of Staff Landen Lama said.
Lama said Student Senate cannot form an opinion on the graffiti without first receiving student input on the matter. In the event that students outside of the body come to discuss the graffiti, an in-depth conversation will be able to take place.
“We’re going to have to come back down to earth and have serious conversation about what the student community needs from their senate,” Vice President Courteney Muhl said. “That’s what we’re called to do.”
In addition to prospective discussion about the graffiti, the appointment of an LGBTQA delegate and three budget proposals will come before the senate.
If the first resolution to come before senate is passed, Kathryn Stanley will be appointed to serve as a delegate on the LGBTQA Affairs Commission this academic year.
Muhl, who is sponsoring the bill, is particularly excited about the potential appointment.
“Kathryn is highly recommended,” Muhl said. “We’re looking forward to welcome that person to the senate family and get them the resources they need to get started.”
Three budget proposals will follow the appointment. University Life Commissioner Jacob Haskins, who also is the primary sponsor of all budgets, said they are all expected to pass.
“The budget committee didn’t have any issues with it,” Haskins said about the third budget proposal, which would pay for the masters of sustainability management presentation. “But it’s up to the general body to decide.”
