Why are you running in the ASUO Elections?

Hello, my name is Raven Strawter, currently a first year psychology student here at the UO. I am from Vancouver WA and have previously lived in Salem OR as well as Lake Isabella, CA. Outside of psychology I also have a love of journalism, art, and am currently exploring photography which I have been able to do through clubs like insurgent and NABJ. Student organizations have helped me meet and connect with others throughout different majors and interests. I believe that since student organizations are made by and run by students, they represent what students at the UO want and stand for, because of this they are an integral part of what makes the UO function. It is very important to have these resources available to students so that they can find their community. This is why I would like to help student organizations so that they can accomplish their goals and reach as many people as they can.

Is there a particular ASUO funded service or organization (or multiple) that you are passionate about and hope to work with? Why?

Attending a PWI as a person of color is often a difficult experience, leaving many feeling ostracized or missing their communities. As an African American woman myself it was and is very important for me to find others and connect within my community. In this search the cultural clubs at the UO were necessary resources. Attending BSU and BWA have made a huge difference in my sense of belonging as I have been able to meet and connect with other black people through not only club meetings but events. In addition, NABJ and Insurgent have allowed me to follow my passions in minority centered spaces. I understand the importance cultural clubs make to many students and how necessary they are in order to maintain the overall culture at the UO. This is why I want to help support all cultural clubs and student-led organizations so that they can make their voices heard and reach people throughout the university.