Today marks the official beginning of the campaign speeches for the Factotum list at Liceo Giulio Cesare in Rome, a crucial moment for those of us, like me, who have chosen to step up to the challenge. On October 23rd, all students enrolled at the high school will participate in elections for the renewal of the Student Council and class representatives. From the youngest students, voting for the first time, to us seniors, having our last chance to choose our representatives, this school competition has much in common with the major U.S. presidential elections that I have been following with great passion.
Our list’s motto is " Who Dares Wins," a phrase that perfectly captures the spirit with which we are approaching these elections. It not only calls for action and courage but reflects a principle celebrated by great thinkers of the classical world, from Greek philosophers to Latin orators. As Virgilio said: "Fortune favors the bold." The idea of winning through courage and determination is a theme that runs through history and reminds us how important it is to take risks to achieve great goals.
The Power of Open Debate
Just like in U.S. elections, our school campaign will also feature open debates. In the U.S., presidential debates can change the course of a campaign. At Giulio Cesare, debates between candidates will be a moment to present ideas and programs and to demonstrate the ability to listen and respond clearly and coherently. As Demosthenes, one of the greatest Greek orators, said: "Speech is the master of action." In debates, rhetorical skill and the ability to persuade others will be essential for earning the trust of voters.
Engaging Young People: A Right and a Duty
In the United States, youth participation in voting is a crucial issue. Yet, often, young people don't feel engaged in political decisions. At our school, we want students to understand that voting is not just an opportunity but a first step toward becoming informed citizens. As Aristotle reminds us in his Politics, the essence of democracy lies in the active engagement of citizens. And we, as students, are learning the fundamentals of what it means to participate in community life, a lesson that will serve us for a lifetime.
Promises and Reality: The Responsibility of Candidates
During campaigns, both in the U.S. and at Giulio Cesare, candidates make promises. As the Factotum list, we are committed to improving school life, from small things to larger initiatives. But the real challenge is to keep those promises. As Cicero once said: "The trust of the people is the foundation of democracy." Candidates must be accountable for their words and act with transparency and sincerity, keeping the commitments they have made to the voters.
Leadership: A Shared Value
In the U.S., there is often talk about what kind of leadership is needed to guide a country. At Giulio Cesare, we talk about leadership in the school context, aiming to build an inclusive environment that represents all students. As Seneca stated: "It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare, but because we do not dare that they are difficult." We at Factotum believe that leadership must be bold, courageous, and capable of facing challenges with determination.
A Platform for the Future
The U.S. elections shape the future not just of the country but of the world. The elections at our high school won’t have the same global impact, but they are a first taste of what it means to be engaged in the community. We at Factotum want this campaign to be a platform for the future, where every student feels part of a positive change.
As the October 23rd elections approach, the campaign is heating up, and I can’t wait to share every step of our journey with you. As our motto says, "Who Dares Wins," and with this spirit, we will face every challenge.
Stay tuned for updates on the debates, proposals, and the involvement of all students... with a hint of the U.S. Elections right here with us!
