HOUGHTON, Mich. (WLUC) – In a vibrant display of creativity and expression, students from Michigan Tech gathered on campus Friday, given the opportunity to voice their thoughts and beliefs through paint on designated walls.
The annual ‘fallen wall’ event serves as a poignant reminder of the upcoming anniversary of the Berlin Wall’s fall in 1989, a historic moment symbolizing liberation and the triumph of freedom over oppression. Sponsored by the Young Americans for Freedom organization, this tradition aims to engage students in discussions about the significance of the wall and the realities of life in communist regimes. Andrew Feys, the group’s president, expressed his desire for students to make connections between the past and present struggles for freedom.
“Students are free to spray paint on it throughout the day, whatever they want, any and all free speech,” Feys said. “At the end of the day, students are able to take turns tearing it down, hitting it with a metal pipe, breaking down that oppression.” The interactive nature of the event transforms the wall into a canvas of free expression, where all voices can be heard.
I asked Feys if he’s concerned about student conflict as they express their beliefs, coming just days after a contentious presidential election. He emphasizes that the college experience is fundamentally about expressing diverse opinions.
“While there may be a bit of a fuss, it’s great to see other people express their opinions,” Feys continued. “And I’m hopeful that both sides of the political aisle will express their opinions as they like on our wall.”
In addition to the mural activity, the Young Americans for Freedom organization is spearheading a military care package drive, which aims to collect essential items such as food, hygiene products, letters, and even games for service members stationed overseas in time for the upcoming holiday season. This marks the second year the group has organized this meaningful initiative.
“We loved making connections with the Keweenaw community and the Michigan Tech community, so we’re happy to be doing it again this year,” said Young Americans for Freedom at Michigan Tech Member Abigail Leagjeld, highlighting the importance of community involvement.
The organization is also expanding its reach this year by collaborating with all schools within the Copper Country Intermediate School District. According to Leagjeld, the previous year’s partnership was limited to the Hancock School District.
“Also, as we’ve shared information with the community, we’ve had a lot of VFW and American Legion members reach out and contact us about helping and getting involved,” Leagjeld added, showcasing the growing community support for their initiatives.
The community has one more week to donate items, with the drive ending on November 16. For how to donate items and where to drop them off, click here. You can also visit the organization’s Facebook page.
**Interview with Andrew Feys, President of Young Americans for Freedom at Michigan Tech**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Andrew. Can you tell us about the fallen wall event and its significance?
**Andrew Feys:** Absolutely! Our annual fallen wall event is a powerful way for students to express their thoughts and feelings about freedom and oppression, especially as we commemorate the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. It’s a moment that symbolizes the triumph of freedom over tyranny, and we want to encourage meaningful discussions about that history and its relevance today.
**Interviewer:** I understand that this year’s event allows students to actually spray paint on designated walls. What inspired that interactive component?
**Andrew Feys:** We wanted to create an environment where students could freely express themselves—hence the spray painting. It’s all about free speech. Throughout the day, students can paint their thoughts, and by the end, they get to physically tear down the wall. This act serves as a metaphor for breaking down the barriers of oppression, much like how the Berlin Wall was destroyed.
**Interviewer:** Given the current political climate and the recent election, do you have any concerns about potential conflicts among students expressing differing opinions?
**Andrew Feys:** It’s a valid concern, especially after such a heated election. However, I believe that college is the perfect place for students to encounter diverse viewpoints and engage in dialogue. While there may be some disagreements, it’s essential to respect and listen to all opinions. My hope is that this event will foster healthy discussions rather than conflict.
**Interviewer:** How has the reception been from students regarding this event?
**Andrew Feys:** The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Students appreciate the opportunity to express their opinions and take part in something reflective of historical significance. It’s encouraging to see so many engage with our theme and share their thoughts on such important issues.
**Interviewer:** What lasting impact do you hope this event will have on the students at Michigan Tech?
**Andrew Feys:** I hope students walk away with a deeper understanding of the struggles for freedom—not just from history, but how these issues are still relevant in our world today. I want them to feel empowered to express themselves and stand up for their beliefs.
**Interviewer:** Thank you so much for your insights, Andrew. It sounds like a meaningful event that fosters both expression and reflection.
**Andrew Feys:** Thank you! We’re excited to continue this tradition and engage more students in these important conversations.
