Fighting Shouldn't Be a Spectator Sport

By Baja Poawui

In a matter of seconds, an argument between two individuals turns into a movie scene, and the halls, a theater full of viewers. School fights are the height of some students' day. Why is that though?
Senior John Gladden said, "I know I'm supposed to break up a fight if I see one, but if someone swings at me by accident I will throw a punch back, so I just watch."
On many occasions students who are watching could be caught sneaking in a punch or a kick during a fight just to prolong the fight, and if those involved in the fight are really getting into it, the crowd then makes an arena with their bodies, which signals to other students in the halls to come and watch the fight.
I must admit, if I see a circle of people around a couple of people I start to walk a little slower just to see what is going on. But to watch people beat each other up for your own amusement is low. After bringing up the topic of fights, SGA sponsor Ms. Bond said, "people who fight are truly cowards because they can't walk away from an argument. People who watch are even worse."
Fights also lower the trust administration has for students, which potentially could lead to an uneventful year.
Not only are fights stupid but they are dangerous, especially in this day and age when weapons are so easily accessible. Most people who start fights don't even have a reason and don't care who is harmed.
"I'm gonna just walk up to some random dude and knock him out if I really feel like it," said a sophomore, who refused to give his name.
Risking your life in a fight for approval from friends is just as dumb as playing in traffic. A lot of students here at DuVal need to become their own person, mature, and realize that fighting for every little incident does not prove anything. Allowing someone to upset you to the point of wanting to hurt them shows them that they get to you. Take a chill pill and laugh it off.

By Jennifer Partridge |  March 10, 2009; 7:30 PM ET
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