I’m writing this to express my disappointment in the LSU Student Government Senate.

On Wednesday, November 15, I was impeached from my role as chair of the election commission. This decision came as a shock, and I believe it was the wrong decision.

I was appointed to this role by former President Shaw and voted into the position of chair by other members of the commission. I was delighted and honored to serve in this position. Since being appointed, I haven’t taken this position lightly for a second.

When I was first informed that articles of impeachment had been filed against me, I was confused and astonished. I was given the option to step down, but I didn’t take it. I wanted the opportunity to defend myself and my character.

I arrived at the Senate meeting early, and upon walking in, I overheard conversations mentioning that people had come to “watch the show.” The idea that a trial questioning my work, character and integrity was a means of entertainment is unacceptable. Hearing that my witness was referred to as my “goon” in the Senate group chat, while the author’s witnesses weren’t, is unacceptable.

I won’t be used as entertainment. I don’t have goons. I’m a student leader, and most importantly, I’m a human that is worthy of respect. My name is Perri Eason, and I served not only as the chair of the election commission but also the vice president of Pre-Law Society, member of the Communications Committee for LSU Leadership Coalition, member of Black Student Union and more.

I appreciate the 11 senators that voted in my favor, and I appreciate them standing by their decision. None of the 32 senators who voted to impeach me have ever taken the time to get to know me or my character. I fully believe that the decision to impeach me was made prior to my trial. Nonetheless, I showed up gracefully, in full business professional dress, and defended myself — something not many would have the courage to do.

There needs to be more diversity within Student Government. We need to see people of different races, sexualities, ethnicities, etc. There needs to be representation of all students at LSU within Student Government.

The lack of respect is appalling and disgusting, and I won’t stand for it. I’m a leader, and I stand on very strong principles. Respect should be given to everyone, and it’s shameful that I wasn’t given that respect. There have been few Black chairs of the commission, especially Black female chairs. I’m proud to have contributed to that number in my time as chair.

I will continue to work hard and be graceful while doing it. This isn’t the end of my time as a student leader at LSU, and it certainly isn’t the end of my journey.

Perri Eason is the former election commission chair of Student Government.