News & Articles
Condom access challenged
January 29, 2008
Charlotte Stevens
Issue date: 1/29/08 Section: News
The placement of condom vending machines in public restrooms of all residence halls is being pushed by the Office of Sexual Health and Violence Prevention. The plan has been met with some opposition by the Residence Hall Association.
RHA Sen. Jim Manning said if condom vending machines were placed in public restrooms it could have negative effects on the university's image.
"I feel that the placement of condom vending machines in public restrooms presents a negative image of our university to families, friends, and prospective students," Manning said.
There will be a vote on a bill that would prevent the installation of condom vending machines in dorm restrooms at tonight's RHA meeting.
If the bill is passed, condom vending machines would not be placed in residence halls.
Before presenting the resolution to RHA, Manning said many students agreed with him on the issue, but has recently received different responses.
"I don't see the big deal," said Devin Dickey, a first-year hospitality, retail and tourism management student. "They would be more easily accessible. People are going to do it anyway, you might as well promote safety."
Students in favor of the machines and opposed to the bill, think it's a good idea if it keeps people safe.
"It's a good idea because it's like the school is trying to help people practice safe sex and prevent STIs …
People are going to have sex either way, at least they'll be safe," said Katherine Anlicker, a first-year psychology student.
Those in favor of the bill argue the
Others argue the health center is not open 24 hours a day, so vending machines in residence hall restrooms would be more convenient.
"I think it's a fine idea. It's nothing different, just another place to get them," said Krina Patel, a first-year elementary education student. Still, Patel said she understands how the action could reflect poorly on the university's image.
Gabrielle Peterson, a first-year theater student, agreed.
"If I were a parent, that would deter me from wanting to put my child in the dorm. It would hurt the image, " Peterson said.
Manning said negative effects on the university's image could be avoided by letting the residents of each dorm decide where the condom vending machines are placed.
"The general consensus that I am now hearing is that if these vending machines are going to be placed in residence halls, the residents should have the definitive say in where they are put," Manning said.
Victor Holtcamp, a USC theater professor, said he was in favor of placing the vending machines in dorms.
"Might as well put them in there. [It's] better safe than sorry," Holtcamp said.