Students at Appalachian State University are talented.
    Without question they excel in our efforts at creative expression, whether it is writing, photography, theater, dance, art or even graffiti.
    And although freedom of form and expression is laudable and should be taught, this freedom should be exercised in an appropriate and safety-conscious manner.
    Namely, this rule applies to graffiti done on campus.
    A new policy written by the university and posted on AppalNET last week deemed the interior of the tunnels beneath Rivers Street the only appropriate place for graffiti on campus.
    To do otherwise, such as graffiti on handrails, floors, stairs and exterior walls, is a violation of state law and university policy, and the perpetrator is subject to a university citation.
    Graffiti on other surfaces, such as campus buildings, is also unacceptable.
    At the risk of advocating the inhibition of artistic endeavors, this new written policy seems to be a positive move by the university.
    Buildings on campus are constructed to maintain a unity of design and create a style unique to this university.
    Graffiti, like the mud from construction currently consuming campus, detracts from that style and beauty and simply seems out of place.
    That is why the Rivers Street tunnels have such an important place on campus, serving as an appropriate outlet for graffiti.
    Due to the longevity of the tunnels as a place of expression, they have become in a sense sacred to the memories of Appalachian students.
    They are also a reminder that we will always cherish our right to think what we want and to say it.
    Even, and especially, on campus.
    However, these two tunnels can also be dangerous.
    Just last semester a student was mugged in one of the tunnels, and other dangerous situations have occurred in the past.
    The tunnels remain dark due to repeated painting of the lights, the painted steps and handrails become increasingly slippery when there is rain or snow, and the location of blue light phones remains a mystery due to the camouflage of graffiti.
    Free expression through graffiti in these tunnels should be protected and continued but not at the risk of the safety of other students on this campus.
    Graffiti artists must follow these guidelines set by the university and if not, the privilege of using these tunnels for artistic purposes should be taken away.
    Take pride in your school and protect the ascetic integrity of its buildings. Make full use of the privilege to showcase your artistic talents in these areas of Appalachian history.
    And most importantly, be responsible with your artwork. Be a part of the on-going process to create a safe campus environment.
    Put other students before your talent, and you can help increase their protection as they walk through those tunnels.