The Free Expression Tunnel is a landmark unique to NC State. Most colleges don’t have a spot on campus for students to say whatever they want for all to see. Living out one of the most exciting, influential and dynamic times in their lives, students have the opportunity to express new passions, promote their organizations and simply communicate their thoughts to the Wolfpack community.
NC State wants you to share your ideas. Hey, even the Constitution wants you to exercise your freedom of speech (well, most of the time…but that’s a whole different story). Buy a can of spray paint and literally make your mark on the tunnel that thousands of students pass through on a daily basis.
To all the artists out there, wow. Some of your designs make me question if you’ve already graduated and are working professionally at Pixar, or if your latest masterpiece is already in the MoMA. Seriously, which exhibit?
I’m sure you noticed last week that the tunnel was completely red and black. First, I applaud you on your ability to paint literally the entire tunnel. That’s a lot of time and definitely a lot of paint. Second, keep on trying to spread that school spirit.
Advertisements aren’t just informative, they are often helpful too. Although we all get emails about the latest meetings, clubs and events on campus, I’m sure the majority of students rarely read them from beginning to end, or even open them for that matter (you know who you are). It happens. But you can’t get involved or be a part of all the events that interest you unless you know about them. When you walk through the tunnel, and the who-what-where-when-whys of the university are right there in front of you, it’s hard not to notice them and you should notice them.
Along with countless other positive messages, the Free Expression Tunnel is a solid representation of the vast diversity on NC State’s campus. So… what’s the problem?
If you forget what the word respect means, look it up on Google or have Kelly Clarkson spell it out for you. You can voice your opinion without being offensive, and you can be funny without being inappropriate. Don’t be outright discriminatory or profane. I’ll admit, I grew up as one of the more sheltered teenagers, but I’m not fond of having to divert my eyes or walk a little faster to avoid seeing some of the X-rated pictures, racist comments or derogatory words. Even if they aren’t directed toward me, it’s still uncomfortable, and it’s still not necessary.
NC State becomes a more prestigious school every year. Remember that time you toured campus and your tour guide didn’t fail to mention the famous tunnel? Every prospective student takes notice of the types of people who already go to school here. That’s our chance to give them the best first impression we can. Let’s not make it one that’s tacky and unprofessional.
There’s nothing wrong with putting an idea out there for everyone to see, but you should be mindful of the fact that everyone really does see it. Fellow students, professors, future Wolfpackers. Just because you leave your name off of it, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t take the responsibility for it.
Have pride in what you want to express, and have pride in how you express it. If you want others to be able to appreciate your artwork, I say go for it. If you want to spread a little Wolfpack spirit, don’t hesitate. And if you want to recruit new members for your club, I hope that you can help get more students involved. But if your idea of “free expression” is purposely offending other people, then please, save it for a different tunnel.