Argumentative Essay: Should Cities Ban Sledding

Winter is a time when a child is happy; he does not need to worry about school, only about the abundant free time at hand and what Santa will bring him Christmas morning. These winter playtimes include sports such as hockey, ice-skating, and sledding. For years, children have taken joy in playing these sports, but now they are in jeopardy of loosing this playtime to city ordinances that ban sledding. (“Should Cities Ban Sledding”) Recent lawsuits in Illinois have resulted in ordinances banning sledding in over forty-four of its parks (“Should Cities Ban Sledding). However, one must not dismiss this problem so quickly. Playing on public property should not be threated by injuries, lawsuits, or tradition. (“Should Cities Ban Sledding.”)

The government is beginning to start an unofficial movement that is banning normal activities in the name of “safety,” (Kaeding). This “movement” is causing playgrounds and parks to be remolded and sometimes even closed (Kaeding). Instead of interrupting these longtime conventions, the government needs to find a way to comprise: making sledding and playing safe, while still allowing fun. The threat of lawsuits could be countered by allowing enthusiasts the privilege to sled if they complete a waiver or sign forms. Injuries and lawsuits could be avoided almost all together if the government would take

Families and kids are now unable to enjoy what they have been for years. A feeling of not only intimidation but also of violation can arise out of situations like these. Buol in his article, Risky Business, argues that the government have lost money due to lawsuits, however, do they need to consider if they are going to loose citizens by implementing these new laws? Time will tell, and hopefully as the next winter rolls around, more city park locations are open for sledding. In the meantime, citizens that stand for sledding will express their opinion. It is clear to see on USNEWS.com the amount of dislikes, towards banning sledding, compared to likes, keeping sledding the way it has been for generations. (“Should Cities Ban