The College Republicans kick off ASU's first "Republican Pride Week" today with activities and demonstrations meant to raise awareness of the Republican agenda.
Jared Sandella, president of the College Republicans, said Republican Pride Week is celebrated on campuses nationwide, where the events have been very popular.
"We thought we would bring it to ASU since this is the largest campus in the state and we have the largest College Republican chapter," Sandella said.
Today's activity is Conservative Coming Out Day. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Hayden Lawn, Republican and conservative students will publicly announce their political views and sport red wristbands.
"We wanted to express the Republican agenda on campus and let students know there is another side," Sandella said.
The group planned interesting activities that will gain students' attention, he added.
The club will sell cookies at the Affirmative Action Bake Sale on Tuesday, but the cookies will be sold at different prices depending on the race of the buyer.
Sandella said the club is prepared for people to express concern, but he's not worried about the activity being controversial.
"We feel it's offensive as well, but these are just cookies," Sandella said. "Imagine what [affirmative action] is doing to our nation."
Cole Hickman, president of the Young Democrats at ASU, said his club would not do anything in response.
The rest of the week's activities include:
Wednesday: Eat An Animal for PETA Day -- The College Republicans will hand out Slim Jim beef jerky to protest the policies of the animal-rights activist group. Cady Mall, by the Memorial Union, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Thursday: Pro-Middle Eastern Policy Day -- Celebration of President Bush's policy in the Middle East. Cady Mall, by the MU, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Friday: Republicans Rock! -- Local band Radio Box will perform. In front of the MU, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Reach the reporters at lindsay.butler@asu.edu and amanda.keim@asu.edu.
