Speaker's Platform on drawing board

Cal State Long Beach's planning committee will vote on Oct. 24 on whether to construct a new speaker's platform that would provide students, faculty and the campus community with a forum to address public issues.

If approved by the committee, the new platform would be located on the grassy area between the University Bookstore and Friendship Walk.

The current speaker's platform, located in front of the bookstore, is no longer accessible because of increased congestion due to construction and the expansion of vending areas.

Stuart Farber, director of student life and development, said that with elections this year and other important issues, a well- located speaker's platform is a top priority for CSULB students.

"We need an educational facility like other universities have, so faculty, students and off-campus organizations have a place to engage in intelligent questions that can be answered by experts," Farber said.

"Sometimes, this type of facility expands what is learned in classrooms," Farber added.

"Sometimes, this type of facility expands what is learned in the classrooms." -- Stuart Farber, director of student life and development

If the committee approves the proposed platform, Farber said he hopes to begin construction on the project by November. Funds for the platform will be provided by Student Services. A preliminary drawing provided by plant operation indicates that the platform will have wheelchair accessibility, poles for hanging banners and power plugs for amplification.

The platform will be made of lightweight wood so it can be easily moved, and Farber has recommended that it be painted dark green to blend in with the surrounding grass.

Just as in the past, students who want to get clearance to use the platform will have to fill out a form in USU-110.