Disclaimer: The following article is the sole opinion of the writer, and does not reflect the views of Southern University, it’s faculty, staff, or administration.
Campaign season is upon the horizon at Southern University, and this has always been one of the most anticipated times on the Bluff. This time of year, for HBCU’s across the nation is pivotal as it is time to elect future campus leaders to continue traditions of bridging the gap between administration and students on campus. Over the past few years students have gone to extensive lengths to gain these prestigious titles, but lately these stunts have gone to a whole new level, and it feels like the goalposts are constantly moving. From skydiving from planes to paying for the gas of fellow students, social media has shown students across the country pulling out all the stops to gain support from the student body. But I must come out and ask how far is too far when it comes to campaigning?
Don’t get me wrong, campaign season is supposed to be one of the most exciting times of year for us students, but oftentimes the true reason for campaign season is lost in the glitz and glam. The campaign flyers, fun giveaways, and overall energy on campus is something that we look forward to every spring semester. Though in all honesty, a Telfar bag, IPAD Pro, and free snowball from the local food truck at Pretty Wednesday does not qualify someone to be a fit leader. While these things may catch your initial attention, they do not showcase the quality of one’s character and capability. While a nice free crawfish boil does satisfy my appetite on a nice spring day, it doesn’t guarantee that it makes the candidate the perfect pick. A lot of times students get so caught up in the free concert tickets and installs that they forget the true weight of student elections. If we base the vote of the student voice on prizes instead of platform, then what are we truly gaining?
I can’t write about campaign season without mentioning how when this time of year approaches, we begin to see the most Oscar worthy performances when campaigning begins. People who never return a smile, never have a kind word to say, and have made themselves completely unapproachable, have a complete rebrand as they suddenly want a spot at the top. It gets to a point where it feels like identity fraud, and the truth is most of the time we can see right through their facade. There are not enough PR trained responses, SGA positions, E-board positions, TikTok followers, celebrity endorsements, and fake smiles that will negate the fact that students talk. Every action is watched from the time you step foot on 801 Harding BLVD and decide you want to be someone on this campus. If you must do a complete rebrand to hold a position, is it truly the role for you?
Being in SGA is not just about wearing a shiny crown or having a fancy title especially at Southern University. These titles are about fostering community, advocating for the advancement of the student body, and representing Southern University with the pride and spirit that our campus is known for. When it comes down to it this time of year, as thrilling as it may be in the moment, it’s here to build a better Southern for years to come, not to see who can jump through the most hoops or spend the most money. Elections are about choosing those who put in the work for their student body even when nobody is around to see. So just remember this election season, while the prizes are nice, remember that authenticity is key, because if you can’t be real with yourself, how can you lead?
