Campus Engagement
A Rich History of Involvement
Being located in a thriving political hub, Michigan State students have the unique opportunity to get involved in their community and make a difference in the Lansing and East Lansing communities.
Sit In to Rise Up
In May of 1989 over 300 students protested racism and discrimination at Michigan State by camping out in the Hannah Administration Building for eight days. However, this story was not reported on in the East Lansing Courier. Approximately 300 students participated in the protest where they submitted a list of demands to the university. Students fought for the ending of racism on campus, the hiring of black faculty, and graduation rates of African American students. The sit-in resulted in negotiations between the student protestors and MSU president John DiBiaggio. The university created cultural training for MSU police officers, more scholarships based on monetary need, and the addition of a minority advisor to the Provost.
Fast forward to 2018 when students took the term “sit in” to a whole new level. During a board of trustees meeting a student jumped atop the trustees table to protest the board's appointment of former Michigan Governor John Engler as interim president. His appointment was a result of long term president Lou Ann Simon resigning after coming under immense pressure in the wake of campus sports doctor Larry Nassars being exposed for sexually assaulting patients. The student sat on the table and gave a short speech where he criticized the university for not taking student or faculty opinion into consideration for this vote.
Free Speech Rocks!
The Michigan State rock is an iconic part of school culture. Since being placed on campus in 1873 as a gift from the class of 1873, the rock has served as a billboard for students to observe daily headlines and slogans. Originally placed near Beaumont tower, the rock had to be moved once artistic messages started spilling onto the sidewalk and grass. It was not until the 1960s that the rock became a political platform and students began painting messages that often upset alumni and other students. Since then the rock has been home to many protests and sites of engagement. Students are allowed to express their thoughts and opinions, using a canvas that many will see on their way to class. This rock serves as a place for student emotion to be expressed. People can write what they are feeling and share their sentiments with the entire campus community. Sometimes being painted every day, the rock connects people and builds community. During 2023 the rock became a site for solace and reflection after violence struck campus. The tradition of painting the rock is one that fosters spirit and camaraderie. Although messages can be controversial or divisive at times, it is important to remember how lucky we are to live in a society where students can express the issues on their mind without interference.
Want to get involved in local politics?
There are many reasons why college students should choose to get involved with their local community. East Lansing is a vibrant and growing city that offers many opportunities for college student participation. One way that college students can interact with their community is by being a part of the University Student Commission. A group of students representing various interests such as ASMSU or the graduate student community are chosen based on submitted applications. These students serve as a bridge between the university and the East Lansing community. By attending monthly meetings and reviewing proposed legislation, the commission ensures that student voices are being represented and fought for at a legislative level.
Let’s Work Together
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