The election of DU’s AUSA Senate for the 2006-2007 school year is about to start, and as editors, we wanted to take a stand. We, as editors, take journalism and First Amendment very seriously. This includes the right to formally support candidates whose values and ideas are similar to ours. However, we realized that each candidate has something positive to offer, so we decided not to support any one person. We did not make this decision lightly. All of the candidates are qualified and enthusiastic.

Instead, we would like to take the time to encourage you to take a stand. But don’t just vote, get involved with the process. Go to the debates and ask real questions. Stop candidates on campus and talk to them and ask them questions about issues that matter to you.

Frequently, complaints about the AUSA Senate can be heard on campus. The two most common complaints are that the senators are out of touch with the student body and that the Senate is nothing more than a popularity contest.

This is your chance to change that by getting involved. The first thing you can do is attend the candidates’ debate. Make sure that the senators hear your concerns. Don’t be afraid to ask tough questions. They are being elected to lead our student body and should be able to answer any and all questions about what the senate does. In doing this, you will get to know the candidates and you won’t be voting just for the name that sounds most familiar. You will actually be voting for a person.

Lastly, the AUSA Senate is a student government that seeks to teach students how to govern. It gives students experience managing budgets and organizations. It has a constitution and by-laws. These are the benefits for people who chose to run for the positions. However, it also serves another, arguably more important job; it gives students experience in being concerned citizens. It gives students the opportunity to speak out and make sure their representatives are actually representing them; to learn what questions to ask and when. These are real world skills that will serve you well later in life.

So if you have ever complained about the AUSA Senate, this is your opportunity to get your voice heard. Go to the candidates’ forum. Read their platforms and their vision statements. Think about what matters to you. The chance is yours to cast an informed vote.

Bottom line: grow up, ask questions and vote, or stop complaining.