About Protesting

Due to the recent protests at Gallaudet University, this article is dedicated to the topic of protesting. What is a protest? Basically, it is a method in which those opposed to a particular issue can voice their opinion and feelings in a non-violent manner. A protest is a sign of freedom in the United States and exercises our basic rights to free speech. Over the years, within the United States, there have been protests over civil rights, wars, racial discrimination, religious discrimination, gender discrimination, same sex issues, abortions etc. You name it and if it is a hot topic of debate, I can almost guarantee you that at some point a protest was held.

Many of us might immediately think of the 1960’s, when those protesting dressed in a unique style and spoke in a direct manner against war. Another issue that we are all familiar with, is that of abortion. Lastly, remember the marches that the African-American’s held, in order to gain equality and civil rights? Protests in the United States have long been a symbol of one’s freedom of choice and speech.

Currently, Gallaudet University is experiencing protests over the hiring of Dr. Jane K. Fernandes as president of the university. While I may not agree with the students that are organizing the protests, I respect their freedom to do so. As citizens of the United States, they have a constitutional right to protest any hot topic that they choose to. Those attending Gallaudet University are our future.

I acknowledge that there is most likely a division of sorts that is taking place at Gallaudet these days. On one end of the spectrum, in regards to the student population, are those that oppose the hiring of Dr. Fernandes. On the other end are those in favor of her being hired. Both sides of this issue are quite capable of speaking out assertively when it comes to how they feel. Rather than squelching the student led protests, they deserve to be heard, especially within the realm of their own university.

For what it is worth, my recommendation for the faculty would be to organize a formal meeting between all interested parties and allow those that wish an opportunity to assert themselves, the freedom to do so. The Deaf community has seen far too many occasions in which they were silenced and not heard. This should not be the case at Gallaudet. I believe that what the students most want is to simply be heard.

My recommendations for those within the student body that are a part of the protest, would be that you remember that respect can be a very fine line when it comes to protesting. I understand that you yearn to have your voice heard and you do indeed have that right. I understand that you are passionate about your belief in this matter. However, please also know that those in position of authority at Gallaudet must make the decisions among themselves.

When a protest is held, it doesn’t always signal the victory for those that are protesting. On the contrary, sometimes when a protest is held, it is much further ahead in time when the desired result is achieved. Please also know that the Board of Trustees, as an authoritative entity within your school, has a responsibility to listen to all sides of this matter. Once they have heard all sides, they will then make a decision as to how best to proceed forward. Take a stand, if you must, and speak your peace. However, when protesting, one must remember that respect is key. Sometimes the line of respect is crossed over and words are spoken that can never be retrieved.

As you all know, I am in support of Dr. Jane K. Fernandes. However, I do support the students in their quest for freedom of speech. Most of us, at some point in our lives, will feel a yearning to passionately address an issue. This is the time for many at Gallaudet.