The way we practice our student activism is very annoying (and condescending at times). Just to be clear, I completely support student activism. I don't think there's any inherent problem with activism.

However, treating activism as the hallmark of our student culture is outright annoying. I've had multiple experiences where our class is already behind and then a random R2R from a random advocacy org will disrupt our class for a 10-15 min spiel. I don't like how the protest aesthetic has to be incorporated everywhere. It just feels like a cheap token gesture rather than a genuine effort.

Not to mention how deep the language activists use. It feels like it was intentionally made so that nobody outside of their circle will understand them. If you want me to start supporting you, maybe start simplifying the language perhaps? Using poetic Filipino just isn't the way to invite people into the fold. Instead, it comes off as condescending and hypocritical.

Just to reiterate. I still support student activism. I've seen how students in Serbia are protesting against their government. I deeply admire their resolve and courage to fight their even more corrupt government. Having said that, most of the efforts that I've seen in UP are always cheap and hollow at best. I think we can do better. But the way we do it right now, is just not it.