Opinion

Editorial: The actions of ICE are unprecedented but we should not be surprised

By The Ithacan • February 5, 2026

We must come to the painful realization that the version of the United States we have been taught is a myth. ICE deployed onto civilian protests is a perfect representation of the U.S. government when a threat is perceived as “un-American.” It just so happens those “un-American” threats are now American citizens protesting and criticizing the federal government. Yes, the U.S. is a nation of immigrants, there is no denying that. But just equally we are a nation that makes false promises. A nation of ideals, rather than realities. 

Commentary: Student faith thrives through fellowship

By Sara Rogers • February 5, 2026

For Christian students on campus, the Cereal Ministry becomes a place of connection. It brings together students who may otherwise never cross paths, helping them build relationships grounded in shared values and mutual support. In doing so, it helps students feel less isolated in their faith and more connected to the broader campus community. Through consistency, care and community, the Cereal Ministry demonstrates how intentional spaces can make a meaningful difference in students’ college experiences.

End User: Filter bubbles erode democracy

By Samuel Radcliffe, Columnist • February 4, 2026

Search engines and social networks seemingly provide resources that connect individuals through accessible information and debate. But invisibly, algorithmic editing of the web increasingly isolates users, trapping them in “filter bubbles” through hyper-personalized results. Online platforms should seek users’ permission to personalize online content and provide a clear and easy way to opt in or out. 

Editorial: Political rage is meaningless unless followed by realistic action

By The Ithacan • January 29, 2026

There is much to be angry about within this country, and that anger being expressed is a logical path. But while language is powerful, words can only do so much. Some may believe that rejecting and disengaging with the whole system demonstrates superior morality, but in reality, it shows their lazy inability to reasonably and realistically interact with a system to try to change it for the better.

Commentary: Democracy and ICE cannot coexist

By Hugo Orrantia • January 27, 2026

All anti-fascists in the U.S. need to realize the full scale of what we are up against. The Trump administration is simply not concerned with public perception; by cementing itself as an undemocratic force, it has no reason to adhere to anyone. 

Editorial: Political engagement must not end after election day

By The Ithacan • January 23, 2026

It is easy to look at the national political stage and feel completely disconnected from it. But people turning a blind eye to political issues they believe do not directly impact them only reflects their unwillingness to confront larger systemic issues that will undoubtedly impact us all. Politics, for better or for worse, impacts our everyday life, whether we choose to acknowledge that fact or not.

Commentary: Student organizations are crucial for community

By Maddy Kim • January 23, 2026

Three years ago, I sat alone in my dorm room eating mooncakes by myself. This year, I got to help bring to life a Mid-Autumn Festival celebration with just under 50 faculty, staff and student attendees. That shift in experience, from isolation to community, is the result of increased attention and effort to provide spaces for students like myself. I am deeply honored to serve as this year’s president of the AAA and to be a part of a small but mighty community of students. If there is a space large enough on campus to hold all of us, then there is space to provide support to everyone.

End User: The dangers of AI as therapy

By Samuel Radcliffe, Columnist • January 22, 2026

Countless American teenagers confide in artificial intelligence chatbots, turning to them for conversation, emotional connection and even mental health support. But chatbots cannot replace trained human therapists. Mental health counseling requires a human touch. Chatbots are unfit to provide this support because they simulate care without responsibility, validate their users with sycophantic responses and encourage dangerous behavior.

Editorial: Students in higher education need a change in attitude

By The Ithacan • January 20, 2026

After graduating from a higher education institution, like Ithaca College, students leave with degrees that act as the representative proof of the work they did. But, as artificial intelligence technology advances and students' attitudes toward education change to not caring about cheating with AI, what will those degrees truly represent? 

Commentary: Avoiding echo chambers in higher education is important

By Dylan Beldock • January 20, 2026

If higher education wants to break free from echo chambers, it starts with students choosing curiosity over comfort.

Commentary: PFAS seep into consumers’ commodities

By Samantha Funk • December 11, 2025

While it is important for our own health to avoid products with PFAS, it is imperative to consider why we must take precautions to begin with. Responsibility should not be falling on the shoulders of consumers. Simply changing the way that we shop fails to grasp the root of the issue: that companies are not being held responsible for the chemicals they use in production.

End User: Virtual pop-ups inhibit attention

By Samuel Radcliffe, Columnist • December 11, 2025

Digital technology complicates how people budget their attention which can render users susceptible to a ceaseless barrage of advertising, notifications and small daily interruptions that add up. While these attention-driven digital platforms have some value, it is important to keep in mind the forces that drive them are not prioritizing the best interests of users.