Who's listening?

Fifty years ago Rutgers was making headlines for scenes like this. In 1969 black students at the Newark campus took over Conklin Hall, demanding that the university listen. In the weeks that followed, further protests broke out in Camden. Here in New Brunswick tensions were high. To alleviate pressure and prevent further disruption and potential violence, Rutgers canceled classes. During these few days, discussion and planning meetings were held. Students and faculty came together and talked about the problems they were experiencing at the University, from race to general education requirements. The University came together to communicate.

Today I saw a small percentage of the 40,000 people I share this campus with organize on Voorhees mall to protest tuition hikes. The energy was impressive. Sophomore John Connelly stood on the bench made from the stones of the tavern that served as the school's first classroom and gave a rallying speech about the importance of funding education. The crowd cheered and whistled.

But what difference does a group of 150 students in the middle of campus make? Who was really listening? McCormick shot down their ambitions. There were no lawmakers present. Governor Christie was nowhere to be found. Who was listening? Who's going to help?