Candidate for the position of Minorithy Ethnic Rep

Image for SALAM ERSHEAD

SALAM ERSHEAD

Supporting Palestinian Resistance

Why do you want to represent your community?

As a member of an ethnic minority, I’ve often felt misrepresented and unheard, especially by the Student Union. Time and again, our voices have been sidelined, and our concerns have gone unaddressed. This persistent failure has only deepened the divide between the Union and minority communities. I am running to bridge that gap and ensure that ethnic minorities are no longer treated as an afterthought. We deserve to be heard, and we deserve better representation. I want to advocate for those who, like me, have felt ignored. We need real, tangible change—policies that create space for dialogue and ensure that ethnic minority students are actively involved in decisions that affect their lives. Whether it’s organizing forums for open discussion, pushing for inclusive policies, or demanding accountability from the Student Union, I will make it my mission to ensure our voices are heard. Beyond that, I believe we need to take a strong stand on broader social justice issues, including reinstating the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) policy. The University of Essex must be a place that champions human rights and justice. That’s why I will also advocate for divestment from companies involved in human rights violations, such as arms manufacturers. By representing ethnic minorities, I aim to foster a campus that reflects the values of equality, justice, and accountability. Together, we can build a Union that truly represents all students and fights for a fairer, more inclusive future.

How would you aim to engage with your community?

I will engage with the community by actively encouraging students to mobilize against the injustices faced by them and their communities. My approach will center around creating accessible spaces for dialogue, where students can openly share their experiences and concerns. These spaces will not only foster understanding but also inspire collective action. I will speak out on issues they face on and bring their relevant issues to student council meetings and empower students on key issues like racial inequality, human rights, and the need for institutional change. I will use social media and other platforms to amplify student voices, sharing updates on campaigns and ways to get involved. I’ll ensure that students have the resources and guidance to take meaningful action, whether through organizing petitions or joining advocacy groups. By connecting students with local organizations, activists, and key allies, I’ll create a network of support and solidarity, encouraging them to act together for change. My goal is to make it clear that the power to create change is within our hands as a community. By uniting and standing up against injustice, we can push for a university and society that truly reflects our values of fairness, equality, and justice for al