Elected HBCU Student Government Leaders Weigh in on the Upcoming Election
By WESLEY WRIGHT
Fall 2024
Upon turning 18, many consider it to be the most thrilling moment in life, as it marks the beginning of a new journey: leaving home, starting college, and registering to vote. Exercising the right to vote instills a sense of being a part of history.
This election year has been undeniably eventful, with President Biden stepping down from the election and Vice President Kamala Harris becoming the new Democratic candidate. Concerns about women's reproductive health, immigration issues, and Project 2025 have raised legitimate fears of threats to democracy.
Elected HBCU student government leaders have confidently shared their personal experiences, from their campaign and election weeks to their views on this presidential election and the importance of voting as black students.
Alton Holloway, Jr
Vice President, Student Government Association, Southern University
“My election week and campaign for the position of the 80th Vice President was an incredible experience. Unlike my previous unopposed role, this was my first opportunity to actively engage with the student body. My campaign theme, "SAW 80," encapsulated my commitment to three key areas: Student Life, Academic Success, and Wellness.
Throughout the campaign, I prioritize listening to the diverse voices of our students, gaining valuable insights that will guide my initiatives. I am dedicated to fostering a vibrant campus environment, enhancing academic support, and promoting overall well-being. I look forward to translating these discussions into actionable strategies as I serve in this role.
The current U.S. presidential election will be an election that will be remembered for generations and generations. Voters in this election have the option to determine whether they will give into fear and false comments of stolen elections or look at the progress that voters have accomplished. Because of voters, we have seen student loan debt forgiven. Because of voters, we have seen the fight for civil rights continuing. Because of voters, healthcare is being expanded to millions of Americans. So because of voters, we have been able to fight the good fight in the name of justice. So don’t sit on the sidelines, go vote.”
Lebene Ashniyo
Corresponding Secretary, Student Government Association, Delaware State University
“Hello, my name is Lebene Ashinyo. I am a junior majoring in biology with a concentration in health professions at Delaware State University.
I had the opportunity to participate in my university’s campaign season last spring when I ran for Corresponding Secretary on the Student Government Association Executive Board. Preparing for the campaign involved a lot of hard work, from coordinating with my team and practicing my speech to listening to the concerns of fellow students on campus. During the campaign week, I experienced many early mornings and late nights, allowing me to connect with students, hear their challenges, and prepare for events I organized, like the battle of the sexes and diaspora discussions. I will always treasure the memories I made and the individuals I met during my successful campaign experience. I am so thankful for it.
HBCU students need to vote in this election because it gives them a direct influence on the decisions that will affect their future. Students can advocate for policies that affect their education, community, and general well-being by participating in the process. Students at HBCUs may not have their opinions heard and decisions made that do not represent their needs or interests if they choose not to vote. This may lead to a lack of representation in leadership roles and decreased support for important programs and resources on campus. By exercising their right to vote, students can guarantee that their communities are fairly represented and effect constructive change.