On Monday, UCLA will be hosting the 2013 Los Angeles Mayoral Candidate Forum at Royce Hall. Councilmember Eric Garcetti, City Controller Wendy Greuel, Councilmember Jan Perry, and former assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin James will be attending the forum to discuss their visions for improving the city of Los Angeles if elected.
The upcoming mayoral forum provides a unique opportunity for students to not only become educated on issues that are prevalent within the L.A. community, but also to learn more about the priorities, qualifications and ideas of different candidates.
Oftentimes, students fail to actively participate in local politics, since our time here is only temporary. However, it is important for us to advocate on behalf of future Bruins to ensure that our city is consistently improving and shaping to fit the needs of our students. Consequently, it is crucial for students to exercise their student voice and their right to vote. Local issues affect students every day, whether they be issues involving tenant rights, transportation, job opportunities, sustainability or social reform, and because of these issues, we have as much of a stake in this election as everyone else.
Many of the platforms that are being put forth by candidates will have a direct and lasting impact on students, such as Councilmember Eric Garcetti’s proposition to “establish a new office to partner with L.A. universities and colleges,” which will benefit students by providing new job opportunities, and his proposition to create job training and placement centers at L.A. colleges. Also focused on such issues, Wendy Greuel is a proponent of quality education being available to all kids in Los Angeles.
Some other ideas by candidates that will have an effect on the Westwood neighborhood include Kevin James’ proposal to increase delegating powers to neighborhood councils and Jan Perry’s proposal to create more affordable housing and to reduce homelessness.
There are a countless number of innovative ideas that could vastly improve the L.A. community, and it is absolutely crucial for students to make an educated and informed vote. By bringing the Los Angeles Mayoral Candidate Forum to UCLA’s campus, students are being provided an invaluable civic engagement opportunity that should not be overlooked.
Kirt is a second-year political science student and an advocacy director in the USAC Office of the President. Richardson is a second-year astrophysics student and an advocacy director in the USAC Office of the President.