Reinstate Esscence at Ujamaa House

Esscence’s presence at Ujamaa House has meant the world to Stanford’s Black community, serving as a source of guidance, strength, and support, particularly to Uj Residents. Ujamaa House is more than student housing; it is a sanctuary where Black culture is celebrated, community is fostered, and students find a sense of belonging in a predominantly non-Black institution. Esscence embodied these values, and her removal has left a void in the community and taken away an important support system that countless students have relied on. Even more concerning, Esscence was disenfranchised in this process and was not given a meaningful opportunity to voice her perspective or be heard before a decision was made that profoundly affected her. We cannot allow this decision to go unchallenged. Just as students before us came together to establish Ujamaa House and fought to create a space where Black students could feel seen, heard, and represented, we will take back the mic and advocate for Esscence’s return. We urge Stanford University to recognize the impact of her presence, rectify this injustice, and reinstate Esscence at Ujamaa House. This is about more than one person; it is about protecting the community, culture, and sense of belonging that make Ujamaa House a home.