Five of Monmouth University’s activism-oriented clubs hosted an open social on Sept. 12 to unite efforts of leadership and social responsibility on campus.
The Youth Activists (YAG), S.A.G.E (Students Advocating Girls Education), The Sociology Club, the Gender Studies club, and Sexuality, Pride, Education, Community, Truth, Respect, and Unity at Monmouth (SPECTRUM) collectively organized an evening social at Magill Commons.
The event gave current and new members an opportunity to meet and strategize progressive activism on campus in the new academic year.
“The Activist Meet and Greet was an uplifting and empowering event, forming a community on campus in a volatile time,” said Elizabeth Carmines, President of the Sociology Club and a senior political science student. “I think it is important that we create a safe space for students to express themselves and share their personal experiences so that we may all learn from them, and I believe Tuesday’s event did just that.”
Each club that co-hosted the event has similar missions and saw the opportunity to grow a stronger and more active community by working together. According to Jane Lai, President of SPECTRUM and junior English student, “This event was a wonderful opportunity to meet like-minded individuals that push intersectional thought while erecting diversity and acceptance across campus.”
Lai defines SPECTRUM as a club that doesn’t ostracize anyone, but also a club that perpetuates equality and deconstructs bigotry and oppression across all facets of the LGBTQ+ community.
“It’s important to encourage students to not remain blithe on issues of race, class and gender that continue to inundate the society we live in as well as become educated on the part they play in a bigger system,” Lai continued.
All of the attendees at the social were able to have an open forum where elevated and respectful discussion on controversial topics were welcomed. Taffy Lashley, President of Gender Studies Club and a sophomore communication student said “The social was a sign of the good things to come this year for YAG, SPECTRUM, the Sociology Club and the Gender Studies Club. It’s so important that we keep these activist clubs visible for students who are interested in equality, diversity and social justice.”
Dickie Cox, Advisor of the diversity, and acceptance across campus.” Youth Activists Advisor and University professor, Dickie Cox, shared his thoughts on what is to come from the students involved as, “Being active, mindful, present, and engaged. [These] are virtues of strong citizenship within in community.”
Cox encouraged all students to “Be the change that you want to see in the world”.
Frank Cippriani, a world languages and culture instructor, attended the event in support of the students.
“I was very excited to see so many groups of student activists gathered together in one mega meeting,” said Ciprriani, who is a mentor for students enrolled in the Peace Corps Volunteer Prep Program, and is invested in supporting activism on campus.
“It was like an All-Star game of student activists,” he continued, “I hope that this activist social is only the tip of the iceberg and we will see a tremendous burst of energy.”
“Changing the world is challenging, important and necessary, but it can also be tremendously fun. From what I know about the people who attended this social, these are some of the most visionary (and fun) students to associate with on campus”.
“As the Monmouth Community becomes more diverse, we have clubs and organizations that support the cultural needs of those groups,” said Mark Holfelder, the Associate Director of Residential Life.
Due to the efforts of the leaders and members of activism oriented clubs there has been many new educational and progressive events on campus.
According to Amy Bellina, the Director of Student Activities, “Within the last few years I have seen an increase in student involvement for activism.”
PHOTO TAKEN by Joy Morgan
PHOTO COURTESY of Jane Lai
