Penn has earned a slew of reputations over the years, but, at least in recent years, being a hotbed for bold social and political activism is not one of them.
With this in mind, the sight of mock tombstones on College Green representing the American and Iraqi death toll in Iraq was most likely a shock to students just returning from break.
Regardless of their message, the organizers of the demonstration - student members of Penn Against War and Penn Faculty & Staff Against War on Iraq, along with the Philadelphia chapter of World Can't Wait - should be praised for taking bold action about an issue they feel passionate about.
Their protest has sparked conversation about a matter of international importance. There are many students who also feel strongly about a variety of issues, and they too should be encouraged to act. It is a sad fact that one of the few times this year students spoke out in unison was when Facebook introduced their Newsfeed feature.
Major issues, like the war in Iraq, demand attention from students on all sides. Political activism is a way to ensure that Penn students have a reputation of not only being "social," but informed and engaged as well.
Not everyone will agree with the message behind the College Green display, and that's fine. But all members of the Penn community should recognize those behind it for taking action about something they believe in.
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