Tonight, the Student Government Association (SGA) will vote on a piece of legislation to change Appalachian State University’s Open Flame Policy.
    Currently the policy bans the burning of candles and the possession of unlit candles in residence halls. Tonight’s proposed legislation will allow students an application process for exemption on religious grounds.
    The idea for legislation was brought to SGA by the Jewish Student Organization (Hillel), the Pagan Student Association (PSA) and the Appalachian State chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union Association (ACLU).
    These organizations have voiced concerns that the ban on candles hinders them from practicing their respective religions.
    Housing and Residence Life created the “Open Flame Policy” to protect on-campus residents from dangers posed by open flames in residence halls.
    Both sides hold legitimate claims.
    Housing and Residence Life does not seek to inhibit the religious practices of any group, only to safeguard students.
    Hillel, PSA and ACLU does not wish to place anyone in danger through the use of candles, but instead to heightened religious diversity awareness.
    No matter what the outcome of tonight’s vote brings, both sides hold genuine concerns of safety and religious freedoms.
    Both aspects are concerned with the needs of students on this campus.
    Regardless of the outcome tonight, it is refreshing to see SGA exploring religion as a diversity issue. Diversity comes in many shapes and forms on this campus. It is important to attend to the needs of all areas of diversity, not just race or ethnicity.
    Perhaps the most uplifting aspect of this legislation is that is was brought to SGA by concerned student groups.
    These groups saw a student need and traveled to their own student government to seek help with their need. This is what SGA is for: to pursue the needs of the students. To see this being carried out is not only motivating, but reassuring.
    It is hopefully motivating to other students who see an unmet need. Other students can follow suit if they find a student need and come to their student government for aid.
    It is reassuring to know students are aware of the correct procedure to get things accomplished and have their concerns voiced.
    Despite what tonight’s legislation will bring, an issue of student concern has been thoughtfully presented. In doing this, an example of correct procedures for voicing concerns and taking actions has been utilized.
    Students can now use this as a template for voicing concerns and bringing worthy student needs to the forefront.