University of Texas club stirs controversy

The University of Texas was scrutinized this week after a controversial game of “hide and seek” was introduced and later cancelled by the Young Conservatives of Texas (YCT). The YCT organized the game with the purpose of spurring debate among students about the topic of illegal immigration.

The group spread the word about their game, and explained the rules by posting to Facebook:

“There will be several people walking around the UT campus with the label “illegal immigrant” on their clothing. Any UT student who catches one of these “illegal immigrants” and brings them back to our table will receive a $25 gift card.”

Soon after posting, protests broke out among the students, stating that the game was “inflammatory and demeaning.” Objection to the game was severe enough that the members of the YCT were afraid the university would take actions against them.

On Wednesday Nov. 21, the game was cancelled, but the damage was already done. Debate on this issue left the halls of UT and spread across America. Senior Ty Horka disagrees with the actions of his fellow young conservatives.

“I do not agree with the tactics of the YCT,” Horka said.  “Illegal immigration is a serious issue that needs to be on the minds of all young aspiring college students. However, it is not right to blatantly degrade the immigrants.”

The University of Texas has stated that the actions of these young individuals are completely out of standing with the values of the institution.

“Honestly, the enrollment of the students at the university should be in question,” Horka said. “When students disregard the honor and integrity of the school, and give the Conservative party a bad representation in the process, major consequences should go into effect.”