USG presidential and vice presidential hopefuls engaged in a spirited debate on Tuesday night, offering students insights into the potential evolution of Greek life at USC.
This year’s lineup featured four tickets: [Ticket 1], [Ticket 2], [Ticket 3], and [Ticket 4]. Each candidate commenced with opening statements outlining their campaign’s core principles.
The contenders deliberated on various topics such as free speech, campus safety, and student well-being, presenting their arguments for the leadership positions.
While a range of subjects were discussed, the discourse on Greek life policies garnered the most diverse responses among the candidates. Some expressed support for Greek activities, others opposed them, and a few aimed to shift the focus to alternative issues.
The status of Greek life at USC has been a prominent issue since 2022, a year that witnessed a significant decline in USC-affiliated fraternities from 15 to four, as reported by [Source]. The candidates’ responses to the Greek life query showcased stark disparities in viewpoints, highlighting a potential pivotal policy divergence that could influence the presidential race’s outcome.
When asked about USC’s stance on Greek life, the candidates articulated contrasting perspectives. Shaw, the first presidential contender to respond, emphasized the need for fostering better communication between USG and IFC/USC Panhellenic through the establishment of a liaison. He underscored the importance of not singling out Greek life for issues like sexual assault.
In contrast, Dacity, USC’s pioneering drag candidate, criticized Greek life, attributing it to perpetuating assault and hazing. Dacity highlighted the abundance of alternative Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) on campus as viable social options.
Palacios, another presidential hopeful, steered the conversation towards enhancing support services for assault survivors, advocating for improvements in transparency and assistance mechanisms.
Fernandez, part of the B&B campaign, concluded the discussion by emphasizing the inclusive representation of all USC students in the presidential role, stressing collaboration and proactivity as key values.
As the voting period commences on February 20, Fernandez’s words resonate as a reminder to the USC community to prioritize candidates who embody a spirit of unity and forward-thinking leadership.