Students at Arizona State University are a little perplexed with their student government's recent decisions regarding sexual health awareness. The school has removed condom dispensers from Taylor Place dormitory at the downtown campus and the student government senators have cut funding for providing condoms to students.
But that's okay, says Sam Tongue, director of finance for student government, because, “That doesn’t mean student organizations couldn’t still spend that money on them.”
Karen Moses, director of ASU Wellness, also defended the decision without really explaining why the decision was made. “ASU understands the need for health education, and will continue to take the lead on educating and equipping our students and this is not a responsibility we ask of our campus retailers and vendors,” she said.
Jennifer Reed, director of advertising and public relations for the Residence Hall Association, is appalled and has decided to take Sam Tongue up on his offer. She's ordered 5,000 condoms for about $1,000 with RHA printed on them.
“I also noticed the lack of availability (of condoms) to students,” Reed said. “If we want to promote safe sex, we should actually start promoting it.”
The student body seems to be torn on the subject, however. Some believe it's not the school's responsibility, but the parents', to make sure their kids are well educated on the subject of responsible sex. Other students, though, are calling this move a mistake.