Recently, the free speech zones on campus have gotten some decent use out of them. Large crowds gathered outside of Parks Library to see what the commotion is about.

These crowds have grown to sizes of nearly 100 people, watching and even participating in the free speech events. While coming to listen what the people or groups in the free speech zones have to say is a good gesture, we should not be mocking the people or groups in these areas.

Many bystanders will often take Snapchats, videos and tweet pictures making fun of the events in the free speech zones. This is wrong and needs to stop immediately.

By partaking in these childish acts, you show disrespect not only for the people or groups trying to spread their message, but you’re also showing a complete disregard for the First Amendment. While some of these free speech events may be dramatic and at the far ends of some spectrums, it does not constitute making a mockery of these people in front of large crowds. If you think what’s happening in these zones is funny or outrageous, simply move on with your day.

While it is just as much someone’s right to take mocking pictures with these people or groups as it is for them to be there, there are more mature ways of getting your point across. If you have meaningful, insightful comments or concerns with what’s happening, we encourage you to write letters to the editor to voice your opinions about the free speech zones.

Let’s grow up a little, act like adults and respect peoples’ right to share their messages in these zones.