Issue date: 10/25/07 Section: Opinion

Media Credit: John Christian Perkins [Click to enlarge]

In a recent effort to change the SUU Student Services procedure governing what films may be shown on campus, university officials are examining copyright violations possibly being abused by student organizations.

Vice President of Student Services Donna Eddleman brought the issue to the attention of the SUUSA Executive Council, noting many students have been violating copyright laws by showing films on campus without proper permission.

We commend Eddleman for reevaluating antiquated policies and proposing an updated procedure for film screenings on campus.

The law must be obeyed. Richard Cunningham of www.associatedcontent.com said students are the biggest violators of movie copyright laws, whether it is illegally downloading a movie or screening it at a school event without proper permission.

In 1998, the Digital Millennium Copyright Act passed with the goal of criminalizing those who go against current copyright laws, causing stricter offenses for those who break the law.

The University Journal Editorial Board would like to remind students to remain far from breaking copyright laws.

Although we do not encourage illegal viewing of movies that have been previously shown on campus in violation of current laws, we do support viewing movies for their educational value.

Regardless of their rating, some movies ought to be considered to enhance and expand the education experience of students in particular coSaving Private Ryan, Schindler's List and United 93 provide important historical and social context in a way that is powerful and extremely educational. Such films ought not be discarded solely on their rating.

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