Protesting is something that needs to be reinstituted at the college-level. In that you are required to take electives like theater appreciation and sociology, college students should be given more exposure to the postive power of peaceful, nonviolent protest for the public and global good. How about a cultural criticism class devoted to past protest movements and techniques that worked?

Protests come in all forms: marching, writing, e-mailing and giving — or taking away — the almighty dollar. Protesting also means bravely (but peacefully) expressing your own views to those closest to you and sharing important news and information that might allow them to more clearly understand the issues you are passionate about. Nothing is more alienating than merely forcing views on others– they have to get there themselves.

On a larger theme, how about motivating our young people to tune OUT their IPODS and tune INTO social issues that will inevitably become their problems once they are full-fledged, card-carrying tax-paying adults? You’re never too old or too young to participate. We need to let the youth — including our 30+ something friends and colleagues buried in their jobs and suburban minutia — know that peaceful, nonviolent protest is not only OK, but a right, privilege — and I’d even propose a DUTY — of American citizenship.