As the start of our spring term unfolds, one cannot help but notice those few yet prevalent indicators that anticipate the arrival of warmer weather and a happier campus: the inevitable baring of skin, the sight of Frisbees and footballs, and the choice of grass and pavement as the more favorable seating options. Indeed, within two weeks, we suddenly remember why we chose to attend the University in the first place, as our campus transforms into a sexier, livelier and more vibrant place.
However, no amount of increased vitamin-D can detract from the striking phenomenon of brightly colored T-shirts canvassing across campus, thrusting equally brightly colored flyers into our hands that tout for the same political rhetoric each year. Yes, it appears ASUO election season has begun, with two weeks of campaigning, wasted paper and a slew of solicitations.
Yet, as tempted as you might be to thwart eye contact, ignore these politico wannabes and continue on to class or partying at the Memorial Quad, I urge you to pay attention to them, not only since I myself will be among them, but because these students are out there wanting your vote in an attempt to control your incidental fee while they are supposed to be representing your interests.
Historically, students have been apathetic to the ASUO elections and often make the conscious choice to not vote. Consequentially, the ASUO elections turn into a popularity contest of who can get the most votes from fraternities, sororities, student programs, club sports, etc. Then, when it becomes apparent that the ASUO does not fully represent a wide variety of student interests, the organization is chastised as an ineffective, elitist organization that does not function to advocate for students interests but serves as a means to solely further self-interested agendas and personal crusades.
As much as we might want to deny it, the ASUO has a lot of power and influence on campus. Yet it’s understandable to feel no intrinsic connection between our interests and that of the student government. However, it doesn’t change the fact that, nominally, $195 of our money goes to the ASUO each term. This is why we should be concerned: because there is a group of 20-somethings running around with a collective total of $11 million at their disposal, some of whom are clearly not qualified to take on this enormous responsibility.
Only you can ensure that the ASUO is sound, honest and effective. Taking an active role in selecting and advocating for those who aim to one day represent you – and possibly someday represent a larger demographic – is incredibly important to maintaining the integrity of ASUO’s stated mission for the cultural, educational and physical development of the student body.
Perpetuating the status quo by choosing to not involve yourself in the elections process is reinforcing the student government’s disincentive to work on behalf of a dynamic and heterogeneous student body. By not voting, you are still making a statement for the kind of representation you wish to see.
Deborah Bloom
University undergraduate
Candidate for Senate Seat 19: Journalism, Students First Campaign