Just recently a statue symbolizing Joe Paterno's success with Penn State University's football program was torn down. This came on the heels of an allegation that Paterno and three other high ranking administrators at Penn State had concealed sexual abuse perpetrated by Jerry Sandusky. The president of Penn State gave a nearly 600 page document to explain the rational behind this decision. In it, he made this remark;
"I now believe that, contrary to is original intention, Coach Paterno's statue has become a source of division and an obstacle to healing in our university and beyond...For that reason, I have decided that it is in the best interest of our university and public safety to remove the statue and store it in a secure location."
I've asked some of my friends about this and we seem to be split on what we think about this decision. Here's where I stand. Joe Paterno was completely at fault for not acting once he knew about the abuse. He is completely culpable and should be held accountable. But so is the entire university. This wasn't just a football program problem. I will never buy the idea that only those in the football program knew about the abuse. That's complete nonsense. By tearing down Paterno's statue the university is removing itself from taking responsibility. This act damns and demonizes Paterno and the football program and lays the burden of responsibility entirely in their lap. That is unfair. By the logic of the president, the entire university should be torn down because that entire place is an 'obstacle to healing'. They are acting like children pointing their fingers at Paterno and claiming innocence. I don't know how to feel about the actual act of tearing down the statue. It is likely a very terrible reminder to be sure. But the rationale behind it and the meaning the act carries with it is frustrating and complete nonsense.
What is everyone else's thoughts on the matter?
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