A resolution proposing that pepper spray be deemed permissible at University-sanctioned events was tabled once again at Student Council’s first general body meeting of the semester Tuesday. The representatives unanimously passed a motion to postpone a vote until members of the University policy office speak with the Council further about student safety.
The resolution, proposed by first-year Student Council College Rep. Brian Ng Dec. 5, was also tabled for a later vote when the legislation was first introduced, pending further discussions with University community members, leaders and the policy office. Ng wrote and sponsored the resolution in response to increasing concerns about on-Grounds safety.
“I still think it's a very important resolution and I agree [with] the sentiments expressed in the last meeting,” Ng said. “I want someone to actually come to talk to us about this resolution … because I think student safety does continue to be a concern that many of my constituents have—but of course change sometimes takes time.”
Ng said he has been in contact with a University policy office representative, but no date for a more formal discussion with the individual has been set.
Though no one appeared in person to provide public comment, Tichara Robertson, Student Council president and fourth-year College student, read an online submission from Christopher Joseph, third-year Engineering student and director of student life.
“I'm supportive of the legislation, but I did have some concerns regarding its logistics that I hope to ask about,” Joseph wrote in the comment. “In terms of pepper spray, if it is deployed in a crowded setting multiple bystanders could be affected … are there any measures at these events to treat bystanders that might be caught in the fire?”
Joseph’s comment said a potential mitigation strategy might include ensuring the presence of ambulances with personnel available to treat the effects of pepper spray. Robertson Said Ng should keep the concern in mind while continuing to workshop the legislation.
Safety concerns about pepper spray usage have been addressed in the amended resolution, which requests that the executive vice president and provost provide education on responsible use of the spray, as well as make the spray available for purchase at the University bookstore.
Ng said the member of the policy office may speak during next week’s meeting at the earliest, but may present the week after depending on schedule flexibility.
“I certainly have a lot [of questions] for them,” Ng said. “I've heard [members of Student Council] and I want to collect questions from [members of Student Council] as well.
Benvin Lozada, a graduate Arts and Sciences student, suggested that the Council collect a list of relevant questions before meeting with a representative of the policy office. These may include concerns about the proposed policy’s effectiveness and its safety implications.
Student Council will reconvene Jan. 30, though no voting date has been announced for the resolution regarding pepper spray usage at University events.
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