The University Catholic Center was spared Thursday from the
current round of injurious budget cuts. However, the threat has
left many questioning the importance of such faith-based groups on
college campuses throughout California.Â
We’ve all heard the trite analogies of college being a
journey of self-discovery, a crucial influence on the rest of
one’s life, etc. Along with the expected apathetic eye-roll,
we must assign a measure of validity to these statements. This is
the time to explore and anchor one’s opinions and beliefs
that solidify an identity in adulthood. Many of the ideas formed
here will last a lifetime, and never again will such influential
resources be readily available.
Religious stereotypes, while easily formed, are not easily
broken unless adequate information and exposure is provided. Most
students here attended high schools less than one-tenth the size of
UCLA with the majority of the student population living within a
10-mile radius.
Major universities attract students from all over America and
the globe, promoting high levels of diversity. This provides a new
and unequaled opportunity to investigate different religions that
were previously restricted.
Given the magnitude of this campus, finding a way to stay afloat
can be challenging, but altogether necessary. One must merely
stroll down Bruin Walk to encounter the multitude of clubs,
activities and student organizations to which UCLA students have
access. Groups involving every music style, ethnicity, sport and
political dimension are eager to entice new supporters.
Members of such groups will attest to their importance as they
provide an outlet for expressing one’s pursuits while sharing
them with people who have similar qualities. Religion is an
important component of everyone’s identity and should be
equally represented with other special interests so that all
students can find their niche, leaving no stone unturned.
Many will question the need for special on-campus religious
groups as opposed to community religious centers independent of the
university. Unfortunately, religion is often inaccessible to
college students, both physically and spiritually. Pure distance
and lack of transportation can inhibit religious practice at local
churches, temples, synagogues, etc. Those determined enough to
attend might find themselves discouraged by the lack of peers
present or find it difficult to relate to religion’s
teachings. Nourishing an interest or belief is easier when aided by
people with additional similarities such as age, education and
abilities.
Of the many religious groups here at UCLA, several are
affiliated with external organizations and belong to the University
Religious Conference. Ranging from Canterbury Westwood Foundation
(an Episcopalian organization) to Hillel Jewish Center and Islamic
Center of Southern California, these groups allow students to
connect with other religious members in the community, often
participating in community service and outreach. This vital link
between the internal and external faith-based groups fosters a high
level of religious tolerance and education.
One’s faith (or lack thereof) shouldn’t deter
support of others’ right to practice. The presence of
religious groups on campus, such as the UCC, allow those without
prior exposure to explore diverse belief systems; while those with
a developed religious background can engage in fellowship with
peers who share similar lifestyles. Such groups prevent isolation,
endorse interaction between the multiple religions, and often
cultivate a relationship between the university and the surrounding
community.
We are lucky enough to live in a country where freedom is a
fundamental right and differences are celebrated. It is not simply
a privilege but an obligation to encourage such practices at an
institution which greatly values education. As long as equality
remains the utmost priority, religious groups can only add to the
college experience.