Charlatan Editorial
Carleton students were excited to hear that Tokyo Police Club and Shad were slotted to perform for the fall orientation concert. But unfortunately, only students participating in frosh got to actually hear them live in concert.
The Wednesday concert in Carleton’s Parking lot 12 was restricted to students participating in frosh. Carleton University Students’ Association (CUSA) said they would open the concert to all Carleton students. They held two meetings with the administration but they were unable to reach an agreement.
Opening the concert up to more students would ultimately make everyone happier. If more students could purchase tickets, it could help offset the cost of Frosh Week. This would also be a more viable option for students who can’t afford the $90 frosh package, or may not be interested in the daytime games.
The university has cited safety and regulations for their decision, but there are many venues at Carleton that can accommodate larger audiences, while still allowing security to check for drugs, weapons or alcohol. Many universities across the country have held concerts open to their entire student body, showing it is possible and profitable.
Plus, bigger audiences mean the organizers can bring in bigger acts, attracting even more students.
Frosh is about getting to know people and becoming immersed in your university. Opening the concert to all students would make frosh a more inclusive and realistic experience because university creates an environment where you can meet people from different programs and years.
The concert is a chance to get all students excited about being at Carleton and should be uniting Carleton instead of excluding the majority of its student body.