Christine Casale

609.555.5555

casale2@tcnj.edu

DECEMBER 1, 2000 – EWING, NJ…Janet Gray, Professor of Gender Studies from The College of New Jersey, and two students representing the anti-sweatshop movement gave the College Relations Board an ultimatum. If they decide that the college should participate in the Junior Golf Program sponsored by Nike, Gray and her students promise a "public relations nightmare" in the form of organized protests.

The college is debating its potential involvement in an anti-sweatshop contract. Nike has been linked to using sweatshop labor in its factories throughout the world. Therefore, many student groups including Amnesty International and the Student Government Association are opposed to the college’s support of the Junior Golf Program.

Gray explained that Nike’s use of sweatshop labor violates a person’s right to freedom, security, and safety. She believes that we could seek alternative funding for the event. She mentioned the possible support of such groups as Hollywood Against Sweatshops and the Coalition of Socially Responsible Athletes. If our college chooses not to host the event, Gray believes our college will be "promoting organized support for improved working conditions." She said that we could "sell a new image of the college, one of human dignity."

The college has been given the opportunity to host the program from May 15-29. This program provides children from Trenton the opportunity to learn the game of golf from professionals. The children will be sent from the college to local golf courses to meet them. Tiger Woods, a renowned golf player, will be making a guest appearance.

The majority of members on the College Relations Board believed that the college should participate in the golf program. They feel that part of our "civic responsibility" is to build relationships with the community. They believe that this program fulfills the school’s mission statement and is a tremendous opportunity for the young people of Trenton. The board also saw this as a way to help the college gain further recognition for its academic excellence.

The College of New Jersey provides academically prepared students with a challenging undergraduate education and a rewarding residential experience, small classes and a prestigious faculty. TCNJ has been recognized nationally for its excellence including in U.S. News and World Report, The Fiske Guide to Colleges, Barron’s Profiles of American Colleges, Peterson’s Competitive Colleges and as a "Top Ten Best Buy" every year Money magazine published its survey. The College of New Jersey is located on 289 tree-lined acres in suburban Ewing, NJ.

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