AS lobbyist works for student rights

John Fraser isn’t able to stay in one place for too long without having to answer a question or help out however he can.

It’s not unusual to see the Associated Student’s Vice President of External Affairs run around campus to participate in numerous committees.

“He’s one of the hardest working members on the board. I’m proud of him so far,” said the AS’s President Ashley Jackson. “I think John’s given it all he’s got and I’m excited for what’s next.”

While not participating in those activities, Fraser must also be aware of upcoming legislation that can affect PCC and take care of his own lobbying committee, which collecting opinions from students about legislation that may be passed.

“In my decision making process [on what to support], I need to consider what students may believe in but also sacrifice what they think for things that make sense. I need to make educated decisions and think objectively,” said Fraser.

Fraser fully endorses the Food Empowerment Project, which advocates that the public should not consume or buy products that damage anybody, including the animals and the workers.

Fraser himself is vegan.

In addition, AS in particular takes up a huge amount of his time. Preparing for the next weekly meeting by becoming familiar with the agenda in order to make valid comments and develop opinions is important to him.

“I want to affect policy and legislature in a positive way,” said Fraser.

The external affairs branch of AS is the only branch that deals with outside events, including demonstrations, such as Occupy Los Angeles, and going to Sacramento and Washington DC to lobby on PCC’s behalf.

“He’s an individual with great potential and brings something new to external affairs,” said the AS’s Student Trustee Alex Soto. “I can’t think of anyone who would handle it like him.”

Fraser helped found the school’s first Atheist and Secular Students club with friends Nick Alderete and Sean Messarra to respond to the Christian groups that come on campus condemning the public for not following their particular beliefs on abortion.

No matter how busy he is, including being a student, Fraser is easily approachable and ready to help any students who come to him for help.