Quiet policy discriminates

Last Friday, a gathering of about 30 people at our apartment on Central Campus, predominantly members of the Duke LGBT community, was broken up by the DUPD at 11:45 p.m. We realize the cops were just doing their jobs-the problem lies with the 24-hour quiet zone policy on Central.

As it stands, the policy disproportionately affects poorer students, minorities and others who do not feel comfortable on a white Greek-dominated West campus. While frats can hold parties until 2 a.m., often disturbing their neighbors, those without residential groups are forced to be creative in shaping their social scene, in many cases resorting to parties at Central Campus apartments.

There is no reason why unaffiliated students, who make up a large part of the undergraduate body, should not be able to entertain. Moreover, the current system flies in the face of the stated administrative aim to diversify social outlets available to students.

With all who rely on Central Campus for their social life, we call for the 24-hour quiet policy to be rescinded. While we understand that Central is also the home of many graduate and professional students who appreciate the status quo, we also think that a reasonable compromise is possible.

Until then, we ask Central residents to complain to their neighbors in person, so we can deal with noise issues like mature adults.

Daniel Potucek

Trinity '06

Joost Bosland