One of the defining and drawing characteristics of Fairfield University is its proximity to the Long Island Sound, which is a calming balance to rigorous courses and provides access to nature for Fairfield students. However, in the winter season, Fairfield University students hold an event called “Santacon,” where students party on the beach. Students head to the sandy coast of Connecticut, dressed in reindeer costumes, unaware of the consequences their actions have on the environment and their safety.
Santacon has been denounced by Fairfield University, who discouraged their students from attending and encouraged volunteer groups to organize a cleaning of the trash left behind. This was an important step taken by the school, but they were ultimately unsuccessful in preventing their students from damaging the environment.
The community in the Fairfield beach area, represented by the Fairfield Beach Residents Association (FBRA), has cited environmental concerns as a significant reason for shutting down this party. In a letter written by FBRA president Carolyn Kamlet, the environmental costs of this party were outlined: “High tide was at 8: 38 PM Saturday evening, and again at 8:50 AM Sunday morning. Thus, two [tide] cycles occurred well before the ‘11:00 am’ time on Sunday designated by Fairfield U. for an organized clean up.” This clearly demonstrates the detrimental impacts that this gathering has had on the Long Island Sound, as the tides carried much of the trash out to sea before the volunteer groups through Fairfield U were able to arrive.
. First Selectman Bill Gerber held a meeting on January 23rd at Warde High School at the urging of the FBRA to discuss the implications of Santacon and decide on the action Fairfield will take towards Santacon. After hearing their concerns, Gerber aims to address “the size of the student gathering, the environmental impact to our fragile coastal ecosystem, and safety concerns.” The environment is not the sole concern held by the community, but also the safety of the students in attendance. According to Fairfield Patch, there were around 17 hospitalized students because of the party, clearly demonstrating this party’s impacts on student safety.
In a quote to Patch, First Selectman Bill Gerber said that we must “figure out how to ensure these parties are not environmental disasters, and that everyone – students and residents – can be protected from harm to the greatest extent possible.” Ultimately, having fun in college is important! However, is it truly “fun” if friends are being sent to the hospital and the environment is being destroyed?
