The student council that's made headlines for opposing gay marriage and punk rock music is facing competition on the American River College campus, where student government elections begin today.
A group of students fed up with what they consider the influence of Christian fundamentalists on the student council have galvanized an opposition slate. They say the council's focus on religious issues has given the campus a reputation of intolerance.
"They spent this whole year preaching this social agenda," said David Fisher, 20, who is running for student council president. "I decided to come back and put a good campaign together to get rid of these people."
Fisher, who ran for council unsuccessfully last year, is emphasizing his belief that the student council should welcome diverging viewpoints but remain neutral on issues of morality. He is critical of the council's decision to support Proposition 8, which bans gay marriage in California, and its resolution opposing the "Day of Silence," which is supposed to raise awareness of gay bashing on school campuses.
Fisher is facing off against incumbent George "Yuriy" Popko, 22, who says the campus climate is hostile to Christians. As student council president, Popko said he wants to protect students from "any kind of political, religious or anti-religious indoctrination in the classroom."
"We're trying to advocate for the protection of politically incorrect viewpoints because that's what the First Amendment is all about," Popko said.
Christian students feel like they can't speak their mind in class, said Viktor Choban, a student council member who is running for re-election as part of Popko's slate. He said he is tired of professors' support for feminism and science teachers whose tests ask how old the Earth is.
"It depends on your religion," said Choban, 25. "I would say 6,000 years based on my religion. The evolutionists would say 2 million years."
Student council elections don't usually draw much attention on community college campuses. Fisher said about 1 percent of American River College students typically vote.
"I was part of the 99 percent," said Cody Lathe, 20, who is running as part of Fisher's slate.
"I need to do a better job than last year to get out the vote and make sure everyone's voice is heard."
Students will vote today and Wednesday. Results are scheduled to be announced on Thursday.
Call The Bee's Laurel Rosenhall, (916) 321-1083.
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