In 30 degree weather and a flurry of snow, Victor Bofill stands at the cross section of University and Agate, near the EMU amphitheatre, hands raised above his head holding a sign saying, “Free Hugs.” When asked about his reasons and intentions, he simply responds, “People need hugs.”

The idea sprouted from the internet. The website freehugscampaign.com is committed to the idea of free public hugs. Juan Mann, the founder of the campaign, is well known on YouTube. His video story was posted on YouTube and quickly raised up to internet stardom. 12^th on the list of most viewed videos of all time, Mann started the campaign in his hometown of Sydney, Australia. The movement has since spread to almost every continent and across the United States.

On the website, users are able to organize and start their own movements in their areas. Users can also share their experiences on the message boards with other people in their area.

Bofill, a third year sophomore, said he was inspired by his friend, “One of my started doing it in Portland and made these signs and here I am.” Many people took him up on his deal; Bofill said all types of people, young and old, male and female, had given him hugs. The snow couldn’t put a damper on Bofill’s hug-a-thon; he said even if it rained, he’d be there. “People need hugs when it rains.”