In the two weeks since April 22, the University of Denver campus has been electrified with discussions about the recent termination of employment of DU custodial staff. One of the most present voices in this community-wide conversation has been that of the Student Union for Socialized Progress.

The Student Union for Socialized Progress, referred to simply as “the union” by members of the leadership, has worked to spread information to the community about recent developments and has gained recognition fairly quickly, especially for a new addition to the DU student organization roster. 

According to first-year English literature major and the founder/lead organizer of the Student Union for Socialized Progress, Ian Duran, the mission of the union is, “to take our privilege in having a higher education and help those who do not have the resources that we do. We focus on studying socialist and union theory so that we can put it into practice for things like the custodial termination.”

In a time of increasing student protests on campuses around the country, the birth of a new student-led activism group is not entirely surprising. However, unlike demonstrations at universities like Columbia, the Student Union for Socialized Progress is tackling more close-to-home issues.

“We would definitely first and foremost like to see the labor conditions of the workers on campus improve. We would also like to bring in the change in a more equitable environment for students and faculty,” said Duran. “Right now we are mainly working to achieve that dream through the union, but we are making close relations with a lot of other social justice clubs on campus that are making serious movements toward that goal.”

Though the issues at hand are seemingly localized, the union hopes that its work will have rippling effects beyond the borders of the DU campus.

“The University of Denver is crucial to the surrounding communities. If we can make serious changes as far as the problem with Sodexo, it could make serious waves across other campuses to show students that they can make a change within their communities,” said Duran.

Naturally, the achievement of these goals requires increasing support from the student body. As with any social movement, the union is currently advocating for the active participation of students in important campus issues. 

“If students want to get involved I would advise them to follow our Instagram @studentunion4progress,” said Duran. “The biggest way that students can support the cause is by staying educated about what is going on. We are going to have a teach-in series in the coming week, so I would advise anyone who is passionate about it to come to that.”

Despite its recent arrival on the DU student activism scene, the Student Union for Socialized Progress does not seem to be slowing its efforts any time soon.

“What I would like everyone to know is that we are always going to be on the side of the people,” said Duran. “Whether that be students, workers, or faculty members, as long as the club is running we will be at the forefront of protecting the people.”

For more information on the Student Union for Socialized Progress, be sure to explore its Instagram page.