We are students at MSU, and we are writing in response to the article entitled "Alleged rape prompts tailgating discussion" (SN 9/21). We feel this issue is a serious one, but officials are approaching the matter in an overly aggressive and unnecessary way. Tailgating is a tradition at MSU and this tradition has evolved in such way that often includes consuming alcohol; this is not an abnormal behavior in the collegiate community.
Not only is this common, but more importantly, it is not wrong. Some students choose not to drink but still tailgate simply because it is a fun event that incorporates many people in a spirited environment and really gets everyone excited for the game.
This is the true purpose of tailgating, and many people enjoy drinking along with it. The students who do drink at tailgating usually don't want to cause any trouble. This is not the goal of tailgating; the goal is to get pumped up with your friends for the game and to reaffirm your faith in a victory for your team.
Also, many students who tailgate here do not attend MSU. These students generally are from the opposing school or friends of students from MSU, and these visiting students are often involved in any trouble that may start. In fact, the man who allegedly raped the girl in the article was not from MSU. How can he be an example of MSU and the students here when he was simply visiting?
We feel MSU tailgating should not be altered or made dry. There is nothing wrong with students including drinking with preparing for the game or celebrating afterward as long as they behave appropriately and do not cause trouble to other people.
Stacey Richardson
psychology freshman
no-preference freshman
