By Luca Filigenzi, Staff Writer

The last few months have been an extremely trying time for Xavier students. 

As one of those students, I have been mortified at some of the recent divisions that have formed among us. In particular, the divide between a ‘conservative’ and a ‘liberal’ has never been more tangible.

Xavier prides itself on being a pillar of critical thinking, a monument to the structure of debate and a place where students of all different factions and faiths can work together. However, this notion has been deeply challenged by outside influences, namely by political events that in no world should ever be the cause for harassment, insults or bullying of any kind.

From what I have seen – as a person with friends on all parts of the political spectrum – this is a trait not exclusive to one side or the other. I have heard people from both sides of the aisle say terrible things about their fellow Xavier students, often based on nothing more than a matter of disagreement.

The political situation in this nation is certainly tumultuous. However instead of becoming members of that chaos, Xavier should strengthen its commitment as a haven for peaceful, productive discussion. This was a principle that was once a foundational value in our national politics and has now been tossed to the side.

Presidential debates were once vital events in which each candidate had the chance to sway viewers through thoughtful, sensible answers to issues Americans wanted solved. Now every presidential debate I can remember watching has been no more than an echo of what either side thinks. Neither side gains members, which only emboldens current beliefs.

My hope from this article, granted it is quite a large and optimistic hope, is that there will be an increase in civility, both in front of those you disagree with and behind their backs. If you are a College Republican or a College Democrat you will not see the other as an ‘enemy’, and vice versa. These are not faceless people who you run against; they are people who sit across from you in theology, people you see in the Caf, fellow students who worry about grades, money and friendship. If you only think of those you disagree with as an enemy, there will be no possibility for change.

As a Philosophy, Politics, and the Public Major, one of the most common things I hear from people outside my major regarding politics is “I wish both sides could work together more.” Xavier has the possibility to be that example, to show the state and the country that we are more than our political environment. If an event occurs that makes it feel like trenches are drawn based on party lines, do not fight in that war. Find someone you disagree with, talk peaceably about the issue and remember, the person you are debating is a human being.

It is a lot to hope for, more than many would dream possible. I know this school and the caring, intelligent, dutiful people who walk through the halls everyday. I know we have the capability to change how we go about debating politics. My final message to College Republicans, College Democrats and all the people on campus who find the art of government interesting, is to try. Try to listen, try to not villainize someone who disagrees with you. Be the peacekeepers I know we can all be.