On Jan. 19, Facebook and Twitter feeds were occupied with posts about SOPA and PIPA. But when uninformed users attempted to look up these unfamiliar terms, they found that the typical “Google doodle” on the Google webpage was masked in black and that Wikipedia was shut down.

The purpose of this blackout across the web was to fight anti-piracy bills, SOPA and PIPA, which was going through Congress. Those in opposition to the bills claim that they would cause significant censorship on the web, which could eventually drive some website out of business completely. While supporters of the bills claimed that they would only address issues of piracy, especially on foreign Web sites, leaders Rep. Lamar Smith and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid finally decided to delay action on both SOPA and PIPA after the public dismay and protest.

While Langley students are told not to use Wikipedia for school assignments, due to reliability, many were upset by the general difficulty of looking up information and the idea that Wikipedia may eventually shut down for good. “I don’t use Wikipedia that much for homework because it’s not a valid source, but it would be harder to get quick background information [without it],” said junior Becky Powell.

Not only were students dismayed by the everyday difficulties the passing of the two bills may have presented them with, but many were also concerned about the political aspects of the legislation. “I didn’t think it should be passed because I find it to be just another bill to give the government more power that they shouldn’t have. Especially because I feel like it impedes the first amendment,” said junior Kevin Herman.

For now, Wikipedia, and websites like it, are safe, and this recent protest has showed Langley students that it is important to stay apprised of government legislation.