Penn's ban on NSO fraternity parties makes about as much sense as Prohibition.
Since 1996, the University has forbidden InterFraternity Council member organizations from holding events during New Student Orientation. Administrators instituted the policy because the parties often conflicted with the NSO schedule, causing freshmen to skip important class events.
But let's not kid ourselves - just because Penn "bans" NSO frat parties, doesn't mean they don't happen.
Instead, the University's policy simply drives these events underground. Since fraternities can't hold registered parties - which have administrator approval, more security and ID monitors - some hold unregistered ones.
Both the Pennsylvania Police Department and Penn's Medical Emergency Response Team agree that registered parties are much safer for freshmen, because they're less likely to encourage dangerous drinking behavior.
It's time for officials to lift this misguided ban and accept that Greek life has a part to play in the NSO social scene.
The Undergraduate Assembly has already passed a proposal backed by the IFC to repeal the policy.
Now it's the administration's turn.
With a little work, next year's NSO can present freshmen with a more open - and safer - party atmosphere.
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