The issue is as red-hot as the lit end of a burning cigarette, which is exactly what the problem is about.
Ball State might go smoke-free as soon as 2009 if the administration decides to implement a campus-wide ban.
Faculty and students, now is the time to make your opinion known and support either the freedom to smoke on campus or to breathe fresh, clean air.
Staff Council already passed support of the ban. However, University Senate and Student Government will both examine it during the next few weeks and months and want to know what faculty and students feel is important. Neither governing body is positive of whether it will support the ban and both are seriously seeking opinions from everyone. Every person who lives, attends class, works or steps on campus will be affected by the decision.
This could turn into a situation where the group that speaks the loudest and longest will win. A group of five that campaigns heavily and appears well-supported could have as much clout as a group of 500 that doesn't show its strength. It's up to you to make a difference. This is the chance for everyone to get involved no matter what side of the fence they are on.
The issue goes beyond supporting a group, however. It's much bigger. It's about how the Ball State community will live together. This affects everyone, because we all have either lit up or walked through a cloud of smoke while walking around campus. Decide now, Ball State students and faculty. Decide what is important to you and make the effort to tell others.
To proponents of the ban: join BSU Smokefree Campus! Strengthen the group, gather supportive information and people and make your point. The science is on your side; smoking and breathing secondhand smoke kills. There is a strong campaign underway but it could improve with your help.
To opponents of the ban: smokers unite! Several small groups exist, such as Ideological Opposition to the BSU Smoking Ban and Students Against A Smokefree Campus, but there is not one, combined group to support people who believe in a right to smoke on campus. Nationwide, 31 percent of college students smoke, according to a federal government study. You aren't alone in wanting to enjoy a smoke.
It may be inevitable for Ball State to go smoke-free. About 60 colleges and universities have banned smoking, according to Americans for Nonsmoker's Rights. Ball State administrators support it, and they will make the final decision.
Regardless of whether the ban passes or not, if you don't take a stand and support a side of the issue, there is no one to blame but yourself when the final decision comes.
Don't snuff out the important issues, Ball State students and faculty. Turn up the heat on the debate.
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