By: Amelia-Rose Williams
Student advocacy is extremely important, especially in today’s climate where pursuing higher education has become unnecessarily complex. My whole life, I’ve always stood up for what I thought was right, advocating for my peers who were unable to do so for themselves. I have fully grounded myself in what I believe in. Even now, as I’m entering adulthood, I continue to develop a true understanding of advocacy and leadership.
The Free Store is an organization at St. John’s University that listens to the needs of its community and provides essentials as a result. These essentials vary from groceries, hygiene products, clothes, housewares, books, school supplies, cleaning supplies, and trinkets!Â
All. For. FREE.
I began this student advocacy series last school year when I was student body reporter. Seeing how it has connected so much with my fellow Johnnies, I want to bring more attention to the students. I mean, after all, our voices are just as important as those of those who oversee our admissions.Â
The Free Store highlights in its advocacy for change that: “Things should be free, access should be granted, and we acknowledge the unfairness of our society without conforming to it.”Â
You would think that at this level of education, there would be a certain level of respect that you would have as a student. However, the reality is that we are unimportant as long as they meet their quota. It’s sickening. Though it’s the truth, our society is fueled by a gluttonous thirst for something to be profitable enough to draw attention and garner engagement.
Now don’t get me wrong, I love my college; that’s why I am persistent in my efforts to highlight where things can be improved.Â
As a society, we collectively fear criticism. However, it’s needed to move forward and progress. I encourage you to advocate, use your voice, and uplift your peers. Everyone deserves to have access to essentials, to feel as though their existence is more than just a number.
We have been told our entire lives to use our voices; together we can be the change that we want to see. Check out The Free Store at St. John’s University and continue to spread the word for a cause that wants to be there for you.