Dear Harlan: I’m a senior in college and the managing editor of my university’s newspaper. I feel it’s my duty as a journalist to always be honest, but I also realize that there could be social repercussions for turning in a roommate who is smoking pot. Marijuana is not legal in the state where I live. I recently moved my stuff into my new apartment and stayed one night before returning home. That night, I smelled marijuana coming from the room next to mine. My roommate was out of town, and her cousin and another girl are staying there temporarily. I feel like I should report it to the apartment complex, but I don’t want to risk pissing off my roommates. I’ve met only one so far, and I met the girl who was smoking. I’ve never smoked, and it makes me uncomfortable. Should I turn her in? I feel like my roommate probably is a pothead, too, or at least condones it, if she lets her cousin smoke in her room. The worst part is that she could get in trouble for letting non-tenants stay there. I would not report my roommate without proof, but I also can’t let this go on in my home away from home. I deserve to live and work with peace of mind. Again, as a journalist I feel I can’t live with this person or let it go on without being honest about it. That girl shouldn’t even be there. Should I turn her in and risk the wrath of my roommates and peers? How should I go about this? – Airing it Out
Dear Airing it Out: Yes, she’s breaking the law, but so is everyone under 21 who illegally sips a beer. Do you report them? How about people who smuggle bagels and bananas out of the cafeteria? Let’s be honest: Reporting your roommate before talking to her is not about protecting the law — it’s about protecting yourself. You don’t want to feel uncomfortable. But being a journalist means discussing difficult issues. And being a respectful roommate means honestly discussing uncomfortable situations. So, talk about it. Don’t threaten or accuse her. Investigate. You might discover that her cousin needs medical marijuana (not likely, but possible). You might learn that your roommate had no idea this happened and is pissed. Talk to your roommate before reporting it. That’s the respectful reporter-like thing to do.
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