"They" say that "any press is good press." So, with that in mind, thanks to the Daily for keeping the conversation about drugs and alcohol use alive.
Curiously, we agree with Sept. 27's editorial ("Drunk and orderly?"), although, only in part. The University does have a responsibility -- one that we take very seriously. At the same time, students are accountable for their behavior -- a point made less strongly in the editorial.
In saying that all we do is "deluge [students with] facts twisted to scare anyone away from alcohol for life," it is clear that the Daily failed to do its homework. In fact, it was just last week that we asked the Daily editors to meet with Alcohol & Drug Program staff to discuss how they might provide on-going coverage of our events, activities and the like -- events just like ones described as needed by the Daily editors.
If only the Daily had waited to meet with us. If only the Daily had read our Web site, then the editors would have known that we do operate from current, effective and research-based strategies that oppose the use of scare tactics. If only the editors had examined our materials; they might have actually agreed with our educational methodology and learned from the practical advice we are already providing. If only they had come to a forum, meeting or program, they could have seen first hand that our staff provides many opportunities for student dialogue and input -- believing that this is one of the most important ways to create a campus environment that supports safe drinking and healthy decision-making.
The divisiveness that results from editorials filled with accusations is counterproductive to the creation of a cohesive community -- one in which we look out for each other; one that assumes that most of us can make "responsible" choices, and, one that sets adult expectations and holds everyone to them. Clearly, the Daily editors feel strongly about these issues, as do we. We only ask that you work with us by examining your own contribution to the solution.
So, keep talking. Keep writing. We ask the Daily -- and the student body -- "what would make you participate in the dialogue?" "What do you suggest we do to "ensure" that a population of well-educated students, perfectly capable of making informed, adult decisions actually do so?"
-- Margot AbelsDirector, Tufts Drug and Alcohol Education ServicesAlcohol and Health Education
