The best in last week's editorials from college campuses around the nation

University of Michigan

There is no shortage of advocacy against sexual abuse on the University's campus. Student-sponsored events like V-Day and Take Back the Night, as well as university initiatives such as the Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Center, offer a cushion of support to the numerous students who fall victim to sexual assault. However, most of these groups have the image of being very female-oriented. Recognizing that it is critically important to expanding the focus of these programs, not only because men can be assaulted, but also because their involvement is necessary to make progress against sex crimes, SAPAC has rightly expanded its services to include a men's activism program.

It is important to remember that sexual abuse has no gender boundaries, and it is not only women who fall prey to violent and traumatizing acts of sexual abuse. While females endure the majority of sexual abuse, males still represent 10 percent of all rape victims.

The standard conception of sexual assault - a vulnerable female being raped by an unknown male - is an unfortunate simplification of an even more unfortunate reality. Sexual abuse is an issue that threatens all members of the university community, not just women. Programs that attempt to address the aftermath of abuse, and more importantly, prevent abuse, must cross gender lines and reach out to men.

- "Anti-sex-crime efforts should address men" from the University of Michigan's Michigan Daily

University of Southern California

New York Times reporter Judith Miller was ordered to jail Thursday after refusing to reveal her confidential sources who provided her with information about CIA officer Valerie Plame, whose identity was leaked to the media over the summer. For refusing this information to U.S. District Judge Thomas F. Hogan, Miller could face up to 18 months in jail. There are 31 states that have laws allowing reporters to shield their sources. Unfortunately, there is no such federal provision.

Miller's jailing is wrong because she is sticking to one of the most sacred rules of journalism ethics. As Miller's lawyer Patrick Fitzgerald said, "The ability of journalists to give their word, and to keep their word, that they will not reveal their sources is at the heart of journalism." Hogan said the sentence comes because Miller has no legal right to withhold this information. However, if this decision stands, it has the potential to weaken source confidence for all journalists and media outlets.

- "Refusing to reveal sources the right choice" from the University of Southern California's Daily Trojan

Ball State University

As with any other Homecoming week, the last four days have brought out the best in Cardinal pride and the weekend has yet to begin. Although Homecoming 2004 may be far from over, it is important to take a step back a look at the way the university has (and hopefully will) come together this week and for future events.

This year posed an interestingly unique situation for the university: It was a rare chance for its supporters to rebound from some troubled times. Allow us to be the first to say: when it comes to overcoming, we are off to a great start.

Monday's Homecoming Kick-Off! had a crowd of roughly 700 students in attendance. Although the number is meek when compared to the thousands who attend this school, it can be declared a victory when 700 Ball State students get together for anything, let alone a school-sponsored function.

But, in the midst of all of this excitement, in the flurry of red and white, we stand silently wondering, "Will it continue?" We question not just in the sense of school spirit, but spirit in general.

Imagine the possibilities that exist for students with this energy and pride - pride that can extend far beyond the benefit of BSU or ourselves. We imagine a form of participation that could greatly benefit many groups and charity events.

We ask this, Ball State: If we can pour all of this time, effort, spirit and dedication into one singular week that benefits us, what else could be greater served with our dedication throughout the year?

- "Increased spirit great for school pride" from Ball State University's Daily News