You have the power

 
Amidst financial exigency, the university and outside community faces scrutiny. However, what about the Baton Rouge area concerns or even the state of Louisiana’s position as a whole?
In the greater economic downturn, the jury is still out on whether it can be called a recession. The state of Louisiana is fighting for economic resources. Whether it’s money for education (prekindergarten-12^th grade), money for roads and highways, money for higher education or for social services.
It’s time we stood up for our state and the communities within it.
No matter whether you like Gov. Bobby Jindal or not, he does not have all the power.
You do!
As taxpayers and voters, you set the stage for your environment and you set the terms.
You can protest, demand, write letters, make phone calls, conduct meetings, attend sessions, share public comments and start campaigns for change.
Within the university, there are students from all backgrounds, socioeconomic statuses, life experiences and even religions and beginnings.
These are the issues as I see it. We can look in the Southern University community first. Southern University is facing financial exigency, faculty and staff cuts, minor access to wealth and lack of economic favor in the state.
In the state of Louisiana, a lack of respect for higher education and disparities in healthcare and higher education are major issues.
In the country, Baton Rouge rates among some of the highest in homicide rates and HIV/STD contraction rates just to name a few.
It’s been a long time coming, but it’s time for a change.
These issues contribute to the reasons for us to come together with common causes with different perspectives.
Students in mass communications can address media concerns and perspective.
Students in art can address aesthetics, visual presentation and format.
Students in business and economics can address business and economic issues and work to solve and cater to that perspective.
Students in law can deal with the legal language and understanding how the laws should change and what will be the effects of such change.
Your political science students can address politics, how we make choices and decisions and who benefits or suffers from what decisions. Creating policy and movements for the common good.
Your criminal justice students are your organizers of movements and initiatives they can discuss the ins and outs of the justice system.
With the foundation of these key players and those passionate about your cause your power is in numbers.
We’ve seen numbers in action and action in numbers, but the most important aspect is one accord and one message.
Whether it is CATS reform or the need for tutoring services in other subjects.
It’s time to make a change and come together for the causes that affect us directly and dictate our, our children, our grandchildren and our community’s future.
Know your rights, your power and choose your battles wisely.