Student Bloggers

Currently, there is a strike occurring here at the University of Aberdeen due to proposed cuts to their pensions. The professors and other lecturers involved say that it is a last resort due to the various universities refusing to negotiate. It is interesting to see how they utilize the power of a union to create a movement that impacts their representation for better benefits. The strike is being done for a cause that is important to the people involved. They are willfully partaking in this event even as they get docked the day’s wages.

As I walked to campus this morning, professors were huddled in small groups near all the main entrances to the campus. They were wrapped in warm layers to combat the cold, and they held picket signs.

Prior to this strike day, I had been warned through various emails from a multitude of sources that some of my classes may be impacted; and, they were. I was supposed to have a lecture this morning, but it got canceled due to my professor’s decision to partake in the strike. The professor in question, is my Human Rights professor, so it is nice to see that she is literally practicing what she teaches.

In an email she sent us detailing the action that was being taken, she encouraged the students to participate through: “1. Telling all your lecturers you support their fight; 2. Complain to the vice-chancellor; 3. Join the student demonstrations on strike days; and 4. Don’t attend lectures on strike days – come and join our picket lines instead.”

The last two points she wrote resonate with me. They both include the word “join.” This phrase condones an idea of unified forces. Together change can be made, it takes more than a singular person to create change, and it requires a movement. When forces are united, we then see the differences occurring on a larger scale.

The entire concept of protesting reminds me of various dystopian novels where the key theme presented is how a singular spark can light a fire that burns so brightly and demands change. This is a reference specifically to The Hunger Games; and as much as I want to avoid using Young Adult novels about political discourse within society, they are extremely necessary in today’s world.

Having this right to freedom of speech seems so normalized in the society from where I am from. When protests like this take place, it seems like a daily occurrence; but, saying that almost belittles the importance of political action.

Being able to speak freely about matters that are important to us gives us a power. A power that not everyone around the world is granted. Typically, in democratic governments, the people hold the power through whom they elect. This simple action of partaking in politics is necessary so that what we, as citizens of a state, can influence the governing bodies that hold authority over us.

Now, I did not intend for this post to become purely political, but as an individual studying politics, do you expect any less from me?

Speaking up is important, but continuing to hold strong to your beliefs to the point where you actually see action take place is another. Back in the states, important protests are occurring that I am genuinely hoping will encourage long-lasting change. “Me Too” and “Times Up” have had major impacts as more and more people step up and demand to be seen and heard. Most recently, there was another horrific mass shooting in the United States. Seventeen people attempting to go about their daily routines of working and attempting to learn were violently killed by a man with a gun at Parkland High School in Florida.

The survivors endured something that was truly atrocious; yet, they have found the strength to step up and demand that action be taken so that other people do not have to experience what they had to go through. The students that have stepped forward are demanding legislative action to take place concerning gun laws. Sadly, they, of course, are facing opposition. Opposition that shifts the blame elsewhere so that their “rights” won’t be taken away. I am left completely puzzled, once again, as to why some people are frightened of their right to bear arms being taken away when there are literally people dying because of this right?

I commend those who are protesting in order to see political change take place. I have hope for the future generations because of these people willing to speak out and demand change. These students are part of a generation of change, and they are part of a fire of change that cannot be put out or quieted. I am glad to be part of this generation, and I stand with them all the way across the pond.

I leave you today with the advice to stand up for something you believe in. Become more informed about politics and be active in the democratic system, because that is the only way that actual change will take place. Do not be afraid of political discourse and learn how to communicate in a calm but open minded way with those who have opposing opinions. Although it may seem that our present situation is bleak, have hope.