Letter to the Editor by Patrick Anthony Kahn

To the Editor:

Embracing dissent is a necessary part of change, regardless of whether we seek or resist it. As a member of the Legislative Assembly, it has always been a personal sentiment of mine that it is incorrect to merely look at anything from its face value–be it a proposed resolution or otherwise. Criticism is a necessary part of any big decision, as the proponent(s) of any idea will always have their judgment clouded by the advantages and benefits of their work. This is not necessarily a bad thing; if a person truly loves their work, they will see it to fruition. The pitfall of this scenario is that excessive optimism will always lead an individual to minimize detriments and exaggerate advantages.

This is the cause of a second party’s moral imperative to expose the disadvantages of any proposal and practice dissension; leading to discourse and debate. Of course, as Lincoln would say, “he has a right to criticize, who has a heart to help.”

The criticism or dissension that a second party embarks upon must always be constructive and should not merely be to silence another individual’s opinions. The ideal outcome of any conflict in this scenario will be a decision made by consensus, which should be the most constructive as it takes into account not just a singular perspective – but all of the remaining sides of the spectrum, a proper answer to the call of the times. This is why we must embrace dissent.

In our process in the Legislative Assembly, the unending cycles of disagreement, arguments and tension guarantee the integrity of our collective decisions as a body. Recently, we have been discussing what is surely to be the biggest change this Academic Year, which is the implementation of the 2014 University Student Government Constitution. I cannot stress the importance of the student body’s participation and awareness in this process. This constitution will be the framework of how the USG serves the student body over the next five years and will ultimately affect the average student the most.

It is my hope that my fellow representatives in the Legislative Assembly will do their best in embracing dissent. We must take the time to objectively analyze the benefits, risks and long-term scenarios of what is being proposed by Mr. Migi Moreno and his fellow proponents. Ultimately, it will be in the hands of the entire student body as to whether this proposed constitution will be implemented. I must appeal to all undergraduate students that they be aware of and closely analyze this new constitution and its accompanying system. I therefore ask every student: Is this the USG that will serve you best? Take a stand – because as the saying goes, a man who stands for nothing will fall for anything.

In St. La Salle,

Patrick Anthony R. Kahn

Legislative Assembly Representative, CATCH2T17

University Student Government