Opinion

Editorial: Student media’s independence and support is crucial in serving the community

By The Ithacan • February 26, 2026

Student journalism is real journalism. While still actively learning and growing, the work that student journalists do is imperative. We are able to do work that serves the larger community, and it is...

Editorial: The Olympics as a tool toward lasting national hope

By The Ithacan • February 24, 2026

So while remembering that our nation is unquestionably a country of contradictions, we also have the potential of being a nation of hope and progress. And if that hope begins with cheering on bobsledders, curlers or athletes of sports many people barely know the rules of, at least it is a place to start.

Commentary: American Kakistocracy

By Carlos Figueroa • February 23, 2026

Speaking from the perspective of a historically grounded, theoretically and politically engaged educator, “American Kakistocracy” is my way of expressing what we Americans and others are experiencing today in the United States and globally. I offer this poem, written in the context of rising authoritarian rhetoric, hardline immigration enforcement, and domestic and foreign policy projects that are challenging constitutional norms, democratic values and international laws. Please feel free to share your comments and reflections.

Editorial: Residential assistants must be given adequate support and stability

By The Ithacan • February 20, 2026

Residential assistants and apartment assistants are fundamental to the functioning of Ithaca College. The lack of stability and support given to these positions is abhorrent.

Commentary: The cold dictates too many facets of life

By Jordan Costolo • February 20, 2026

In a spiritual sense, I think that the cold is the opposite of humanity. We created things like fire, and centralized heating for the exact purpose of keeping away cold. Of keeping humanity warm, together. Maybe the cold is supposed to do that. Keep people huddled together, like penguins.

End User: Social media forms false norms and produces discontent

By Samuel Radcliffe, Columnist • February 19, 2026

Extreme norms such as negativity, intergroup hostility, polarization, unrealistic beauty standards and outrageous benchmarks for success appear strikingly prevalent online. False norms are harmful and divisive because as users scroll through their feeds, and are exposed to them, they form inferences about the beliefs of members of specific groups, society, individuals and their own community.

Commentary: The dangers of right-wing influencers

By Alec Aleva • February 19, 2026

The cycle needs to be broken. Do not fall into the rabbit hole of engaging with these online oppressors. They lose power when they do not have an audience. So do not contribute to their statistics and stop engaging.

Editorial: Black History Month is imperative to understanding all of history

By The Ithacan • February 15, 2026

Black History Month is imperative to understand the true history of the United States. While this month is not limited to the history of Black Americans, amidst the pushback against diversity, equity and inclusion policies, celebrating the achievements of Black Americans while equally acknowledging their unique experiences throughout our nation’s history is crucial. 

Commentary: Technology causes lack in students’ communication skills

By Desiree Desir • February 12, 2026

Although technology is an increasingly useful part of daily life, it is important to recognize that setting devices aside and engaging in face-to-face conversations may be far more beneficial in the long run than relying solely on digital communication.

Editorial: Bad Bunny and the Big Game – The influential power of art and sports

By The Ithacan • February 9, 2026

It is hard to say that the NFL was entirely making a political statement by choosing Bad Bunny for the halftime show. It equally and realistically could have been functioning as a business, strategically attempting to grow viewership as well as increase publicity. But what is clear is the impact and influential power the NFL, as well as sports in general, has on culture as well as politics in the United States.

Commentary: Public health requires community action

By Ava Remoll • February 6, 2026

While it will always be wise to ensure you are giving informed consent to medical decisions, the purpose of the HHS is to provide evidence-based recommendations that the scientific community at large agrees to be the most beneficial for public health. In its current state, the HHS is not carrying out this function. This unfortunately means that a burden has been placed on those with the ability to more carefully think through their medical decisions, no matter how small or seemingly unimportant. Under a government that refuses to protect the health of its citizens, now more than ever we must undertake a responsibility to protect ourselves and our community. 

Editorial: Returning to analog tools is imperative for decreasing screen time

By The Ithacan • February 6, 2026

Phones now act as digital pacifiers instead of the practical tools they were initially designed to be. Technology is supposed to aid in people’s everyday lives, not completely take them over. With an...