Large gathering of UGA students sparks Twitter debate and official COVID-19 reminder
A large gathering of University of Georgia students at the intramural fields this past weekend triggered a flurry of comments on Twitter and prompted a statement from a UGA official urging students to engage in the safe practices recommended during the coronavirus pandemic.
Victor K. Wilson, vice president for Student Affairs, issued a statement Monday welcoming students back to campus, but also imploring them to adhere to practices meant to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“I have always tried to be honest and up front with you, and I must level with you — it appears that some in the student community have decreased your diligence in adhering to good public practices,” Wilson wrote. “Primarily we are trying to keep you and the university and Athens communities safe."
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Safety requirements are still in place and students are expected to follow the guidelines, according to Wilson.
UGA spokesman Greg Trevor said Monday that the gathering of students was not a registered event on campus, but that the Student Affairs office is investigating.
People on Twitter argued the risks posed by the students engaged in play on the fields.
“These are the people ruining it for the rest of us,” wrote one woman, who identified herself as student. “You have an opportunity to hold these groups accountable and I hope you send a message to those who continue to put other people at risk.”
“Who cares? If they want to risk their own safety, they can do as they wish,” a man wrote.
“They have to go back around people and other students that do follow regulations … I don’t give two (expletive) about if any of those kids get sick. It’s the fact that they will bring it around others who can die because of it,” another woman wrote.
“Looks like they’re having fun. Good for them,” another man wrote on Twitter.
In his letter to students, Wilson also told them “the University does its utmost to do its part to keep you safe and keep campus open — I’m asking you to do yours.”
Wilson reported that mask wearing and physical distancing “for the most part” has been good in classes and on campus generally.
However, Wilson said places where this could be improved include buses and bus stops, dining locations, libraries, the Tate Student Center and at outdoor gatherings at apartment complexes and downtown Athens.