The Carrier Dome’s decision to indefinitely halt the use of its “Kiss Cam” is an important opportunity to review and improve how the promotion is used during future games.

The “Kiss Cam” was not used during Saturday’s game between the Orange and Central Michigan following a Letter to the Editor published Friday on Syracuse.com. The author of the letter argued that in some instances shown this season, the woman on screen clearly didn’t want to participate, but was kissed anyway by the man in the frame. Both the instances highlighted in the letter involved students, the author said.

Through those actions, the camera promotes unacceptable behavior at a time when sexual assault is prevalent, particularly on college campuses, the author said.

It is in poor judgment on behalf of camera operators to direct the “Kiss Cam” at the student section, but it should not be banned completely. With some basic rules and common sense, these incidents can be avoided moving forward.

“We are taking the time to assess the concerns expressed in the letter to the editor,” Sue Edson, executive senior associate athletics director for communications, said in an email.

To avoid uncomfortable situations in the future, the “Kiss Cam” should never be used on the student section when operators are looking for a couple to feature, as doing so creates chance for risk on multiple levels. The university should also review its policies to ensure these situations do not happen again and should be open to suggestions and feedback from the Syracuse community.

“Kiss Cams” are considered a tradition in stadiums across the country, but it is common for issues to arise depending on how it is used. To ban the “Kiss Cam” entirely would be too reactionary by the university, but SU Athletics should use this time to have a necessary conversation about the “Kiss Cam” and how it can be maintained as a staple of home games in a responsible way.

Published on September 21, 2015 at 11:46 pm

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