I'm concerned about Security's recent cutbacks on the escort policy and I am personally offended by the reasons given. Having been aware of the attacks that occurred over Winter Term (particularly in very visible parts of Oberlin, during the daytime) and having spent the second part of last semester seriously concerned for my safety as a member of Baldwin, I no longer feel safe on campus. At night, I've asked for walking escorts to my off-campus house and security provided me with a driving one instead. I am insulted that you may think I am "taking advantage" of the College's generous driving escort, when in fact, all I asked for was someone to walk home with me. I am especially concerned about the proposed policy towards intoxicated students. By choosing to not assist intoxicated students, the College is very explicitly showing a lack of concern for student safety. It is sad to hear that buildings and property are more important than student safety. A walking or driving "shuttle" to off-campus and on-campus locations or more cadets (work-study students save the school by using government funds) who provide walking escorts to off-campus locations can create a sense of safety. Obviously, security is not a taxi service, but security can't just say that the safety of off-campus students is not as important as the on-campus students'. I suggest you acknowledge the flaw in the design and not accuse students when we were encouraged to use the escort system at all times in the first place.
Copyright © 1996, The Oberlin Review.
Volume 124, Number 15; February 23, 1996
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