Sometimes, it just takes a first step.

The Interfraternity Council (IFC) has taken a great first step, and it's about a serious subject that needs to have quite a few first steps.

After the IFC announced the "rape-free" zones last week, a lot of people poked fun at the idea. But this is one of the best first steps an organization has taken on the issue of sexual assault in quite some time.

It takes an entire community to combat something such as sexual assault and rape, and by making a statement telling everyone that it does not stand for such behavior, the IFC is truly doing something worthwhile -- no matter what some may say.

Other student and local organizations that haven't done so already should follow suit and make a bold statement condemning rape.

The IFC governs the largest Penn State student group with, arguably, a whole lot of power. By giving a stance against something so repulsive as rape and sexual assault, it has moved things in the right direction.

When a commitment like this is made, it means a tremendous amount to a lot of people.

What about the woman sitting next to you in class who has been sexually assaulted, and you laugh about the IFC's statement? How does she feel?

By placing a sign or sticker on its houses' doors, the IFC is putting its beliefs in the limelight. Think about how advertising works. Sure, not all advertisements make you buy a product, but surely some do.

The IFC is selling an idea that a lot of people should buy.

The organization is also making great strides in teaching its younger members about sexual assault.

It's proven that teaching peers can be an extremely effective tool. It's better to have an older fraternity member talk to younger members about sexual assault than having some "adult-type figure" explain the dos and don'ts.

It's a shame that so many people came down on the IFC's stance and intentions. It's a terrible thing to make light of such a horrible and sick crime.

Maybe IFC's stickers won't cure the problem, but it sure puts it in perspective to have one of the largest male-populated groups saying, "No, we won't stand for this."

We're buying what they're selling.