Safe Spaces: the new college campus staple.
These campus quarters are meant to imply a "certain license to speak and act freely." Then again, shouldn't that be implicated on campus as a whole to encourage our First Amendment rights to free speech? Apparently not, because a safe space allows people to feel comfortable with their own soft views instead of venturing about campus to converse with other of diverse opinions.
Disclosure: I have never been to a "safe space."
Is it because I am "privileged?" No. I have thick skin that allows me to hear opinions that I definitely don't agree with because I want everyone to exercise their right to free speech. This allows me to hear from all view points in order to strengthen my own.
Since I have never been to a "safe space," here is what I imagine on the inside of a safe space.
Tissues
When someone offends you and you can't hold back the tears, bring your tears to a safe space.
Chocolate Milk and Cookies
After crying, fun snacks are a perfect pick me up! Milk comes in all options from full fat, 2 percent, 1 percent, fat free, dairy free, chocolate free chocolate milk, almond milk, soy milk, goat milk, and milk free milk. The diversity of milk ensures that no one gets offended.
Coloring Books
When the classroom text books are full of facts that don't align with your feelings, opt for a coloring book instead in your local Safe Space!
Ear Plugs
What if conservative students decide to exercise their right to free speech? Or what if they bring in the campus' first conservative speaker in decades to discuss capitalism? Better not listen because God forbid you get offended! (Also, never mention God...)
Eye Masks
What if a conservative group decides to wave American flags? Or plasters posters around campus dismissing the gender wage gap? Avert your eyes!
Participation Trophies
Everyone is a winner in the Safe Space!
Puppies
Pet therapy in your Safe Space is very helpful, since puppies are unable to speak, you won't have to worry about them using their First Amendment right to free speech. Just free bark! (Don't worry, the puppies are rescues.)
The First Amendment
...Only used as a wee-wee pad for the therapy puppies.
Wow, Safe Spaces sound amazing! But is it helpful? Is it worth it?
Instead of retreating to a soft, nurturing environment to coddle your feelings, maybe try challenging your believes on your college campus without relying on the Safe Spaces to save you from emotional blows. After all, that is what college is for -- education by peer interaction. You will disagree with other students, but that is a given in life. When you leave the college campus bubble, there are no more Safe Spaces. So you better get used to standing up for yourself as soon as possible.
