Every action has a consequence. We demand that every person — from students to world leaders — assume responsibility for his or her actions. Accepting the costs of one's choices is the mark of a reasoned adult.
Several weeks ago, on Nov. 15, MUSG Legislative Vice President Abe Matthew approached a Tribune reporter outside 2040 Lofts. Matthew (who is 21) was drunk and, apparently, upset with the Tribune's coverage of his organization. Grabbing the Tribune reporter by the arm, Matthew snatched the reporter's ID card from his pocket and said, "Bad things happen when you mess with MUSG."
The Tribune reported the altercation to the Department of Public Safety and MUSG President Ray Redlingshafer. After a closed executive session at MUSG's Nov. 20 Senate meeting, it was left to Redlingshafer to determine the appropriate course of action and discipline.
Unfortunately, MUSG bylaws prevent Redlingshafer from directly firing Matthew. Instead, he has left Matthew with two options: resign his post or take an unpaid three-week suspension and issue a full public apology for his actions.
We unequivocally support Matthew's immediate resignation. We recommend that he apologize as well.
To say that Matthew acted disrespectfully is an understatement. But what's most disappointing is that by making threats against a reporter, Matthew has disrespected the very organization that he serves. Even while out on the weekend, students reflect the groups with which they identify. Individuals are responsible for their actions 100 percent of the time.
By choosing suspension, Matthew would approve of his actions. We strongly believe that no one — most of all Matthew — should be content with the poor conduct and judgment he has displayed. The Tribune would never condone such behavior, and we hope Matthew wouldn't either.
If Matthew does not choose to resign, MUSG Senators will vote on his suspension at tonight's Senate meeting. We hope the Senate unanimously approves the measure. To allow Matthew to go unpunished, MUSG would effectively condone the atrocious behavior of one of its members and perhaps even encourage others to act in a similarly indecorous, undignified manner toward their fellow students.
Twice a week, the Tribune attempts to bring relevant news to the Marquette community. When we inevitably make mistakes, we do our very best to correct them and react appropriately. We expect nothing less from our counterparts in other student organizations.
On the night of Nov. 15, Matthew chose not to behave in a manner befitting a leader in student government. We hope that today Matthew makes a better choice and holds himself accountable for his own actions. We call on Matthew to make a graceful exit from an ungraceful situation.