It would be foolish for Ohio University not to come forward with a stance on the party culture that exists on campus.
“Be Smart, Be Civil, Be Safe,” which OU and the city of Athens unveiled in spring 2011, is a practical, relatable message.
Last year, however, the university’s party safety campaign was directly tied in with a message that essentially asked students not to embarrass themselves or OU online via social media.
As a generation growing up in the digital age, that isn’t news to us. To ask all of us not to mimic the behavior of one or two students caught on YouTube was inefficient and perhaps somewhat insulting. Nobody wants to be embarrassed, and students are aware of the power of social media.
An ambiguous request to keep belligerent behavior off the Internet was never going to be effective. And it was ineffective, as students (whether here or visiting) proceeded to catch the world’s attention by falling in the mud and lighting things on fire.
This year’s “Party Legal” campaign, however, is a much more appropriate and revamped version of the message to be smart, civil and safe. The new posters clearly outline how to party and enjoy oneself while remaining in accordance with the reincarnated Nuisance Party Law.
The posters remind students that blocking traffic, public defecation and all-around belligerent behavior should be avoided. It encourages behavior that can safely exist in a college town that comprises two large, vocal and often opposing groups.
That sort of straightforward and informative campaign can help students be compliant with the new law. Rather than focusing on the consequences of bad behavior, the new campaign rightly focuses on reminding students that there are ways to party without getting arrested or being destructive.
We believe the refocused message is certainly a step in the right direction toward educating students on how to enjoy themselves safely and legally.
Editorials represent the majority opinion of The Post’s executive editors.
