As we all know, being a collegiette™ at UT Austin means so much more than just carrying the title of being longhorn alone. Though frankly it is one of the best titles anyone could ask for. If you don’t believe me, just ask any one of the 50,000 students here at UT for a second opinion. Attending UT means that you are an Austinite just as much as it means you are a longhorn.
With that in mind, have you been keeping up with what’s happening at the Capitol building? The Capitol is less than a mile away from our gorgeous 40-acre campus with two major protests on the front lawn in February and March alone. Many of those participating in the protests are members of the UT community.
On Saturday, February 26th, over 300 people participated in the “Walk for Choice” protest held at the Capitol Building. That afternoon students and members of the community came armed with posters, energy ready to lead an inspiring demonstration disputing the recently implemented budget cuts made on Planned Parenthood.
Longhorn Celia Steigerwald who participated in this event said, “As young adults and young women, we have the right to make personal decisions about our bodies. With this right to our bodies is attached a sense of responsibility and respect that we must have for ourselves and for others. That is why I am here today: out of respect for every woman who deserves freedom of choice and because it is my responsibility as a woman.”
The second major protest, which took place on March 22nd at the Texas State Capitol again, was in reaction to a bill that would allow faculty and students with concealed handgun licenses to carry concealed guns on campus making it through the first round of getting passed.
Freshman Grace Worm spoke in remark to this bill saying, “It is vital that we speak up in opposition to allowing guns to be present on campus, especially after the horrific incident that happened right here on campus this fall.” Worm was referring to the suicide shooting that occurred on the 6th floor of the PCL Library at UT Austin on September 28th.
What I am trying to say, HerCampus readers, is to pay attention, get involved, and make a difference in your community by taking a stand. Fulfill your duty as an activist, pacifist, Conservative, Democrat or independent. Whatever your cause is, stand by it! As women in college, it is important to have our voices heard. As students at UT, it is our job to play an active role in bettering the world around us.
Remember to participate in meaningful causes and speak up for the ideals that you believe in. Not just because it is the right thing to do, but also because the eyes of Texas are upon you.