We like to think of universities as places of free discussion, where any idea can be heard, debated, promoted, and criticized. During election season, one might expect universities to be buzzing with all kinds of political activities and debates. Yet at the Université du Québec à Rimouski, our event “What Would a Socialist Quebec Look Like?” had to be postponed because university regulations prohibit any “partisan” activities during elections! What a great way to encourage young people’s interest in politics!
The only activity allowed was a debate between the candidates, with no participation from the student body. No questions from the audience, and even applause was forbidden! Once again, it seems as though everything is being done to discourage students from taking an interest in politics. A more militant faction of students interrupted the debate several times to challenge the candidates, for example on the subject of Palestine. How can we blame them when, even during an election—in this brief period when power is (in appearance only) in the hands of ordinary people—their voices are ignored!
Some people complain that young people are uninterested in politics, but it is really politics that is uninterested in young people. We communists know that young people are eager for change. Not a change in government—but a change in the system. We must channel this anger and organize it into a party that can overthrow capitalism and finally put power in the hands of young people and workers!
– Manu R., Rimouski
