KSWOC and Civil Discourse (Hannah Sussman)

Chapter eight, “Discourses: Liberty and Repression”, of the book The Civil Sphere written by Jeffery Alexander primarily discusses how the language used in the political sphere has implied meanings of civil or anti civil motives, actions or institutions. Although the most obvious application of Alexander’s writing is in American political spheres, Alexander’s writings can be applied to discourse of liberty and repression within politics, his arguments can also be applied to the more general definition of politics; “the debate or conflict among individuals or parties having or hoping to achieve power” (Oxford Languages).

Closer to home, Alexander’s arguments can be seen in the language used by Kenyon Student Worker Organizing Committee (K-SWOC), in their union efforts. In October 2021,  K-SWOC held a silent protest in Chalmers Library over the continued delays for a union vote, as well as Kenyon’s choice to hire Jones Day.

K-SWOC’s argument is furthered by them using some of the positive characteristics as described by Alexander. In the above image, they line the open edges of the library atrium while the board meets in secret. They call for a vote, suggesting that they believe in equality and are open to other people’s ideas. They also cast doubt about the board with signs asking the viewer to consider where their money is going.