Why are you running in the ASUO Elections?

Hi, I'm Alex Hiuhu (He/Him). I grew up in Boston, Massachusetts, and am running for Senate Seat 18 Journalism Undergraduate because SOJC students deserve a voice in ASUO that fights for their interests.

I know the power of journalism to challenge authority, amplify marginalized voices, and expose the truth. Decisions are made behind closed doors, with little student input and less transparency. As a member of many student organizations, I've worked with students from different backgrounds, hearing their concerns and understanding their challenges.

Journalism is about truth, accountability, and amplifying unheard voices. Student journalists are often discouraged from asking tough questions or pressured to avoid controversial topics. I will fight to protect press freedom on campus, ensuring student journalists can report without fear of retaliation from professors, administrators, or the government. No student should face consequences for exposing the truth.

I want to support marginalized groups on campus by establishing an SSWANA and Latine Center. I am a proud supporter of the UO student workers union. I believe in action, not bureaucracy, including demanding more funding for student media so journalists have the resources to cover important stories. Advocating for paid internships so students from all backgrounds can gain experience.

As one of the most front facing parts of ASUO, how do you plan on making these interactions as positive as possible for students?

ASUO should be accessible, transparent, and genuinely student driven. Too many students feel disconnected from student government, which needs to change.

To address this, I will Meet with student organizations outside of Senate hearings because essential conversations don't just happen in formal meetings. I will simplify the funding process, ensuring student-run media and campus organizations can access resources without unnecessary obstacles. I will push for student representation in decision-making processes, ensuring that students have a direct say in matters that affect them. 

Advocate for open forums where students can voice concerns directly, making ASUO a space that listens, acts, and delivers results.

A student government that doesn't challenge the university isn't doing its job. I will ensure that ASUO fights for students and does not operate as another layer of administration.

A key part of my vision is establishing a student-led newsroom to investigate and report on campus issues, ensuring transparency and holding UO accountable. This newsroom will serve as a watchdog, ensuring that UO operates with integrity and does not suppress student journalists when they uncover uncomfortable truths. If UO truly believes in transparency, it should welcome independent student journalism that keeps it in check.

How are you connected to the academic programs you represent? How will you utilize these connections to best represent students?

My student journalism, activism, and organizing background has given me the experience and perspective to fight for real change. As a Student Insurgent and UO NABJ member, I work directly with student journalists and media professionals, understanding their challenges and barriers. 

Through YDSA, I advocate for economic justice issues, such as paid internships and fair labor practices for student reporters. I also want real structural change. That means ensuring marginalized students are protected from administrative retaliation when they challenge power through journalism. I will use my experience to Fight for better funding for student-run media, create real investigative reporting opportunities that expose corruption and injustice, and ensure that SOJC students have a direct say in decisions that impact them.

Journalism should challenge power, not be controlled by it. As your senator, I will uphold this principle and ensure that ASUO operates with integrity and transparency. If you want someone who is for the people, then I'm your candidate.