Northeastern University's Political Arguments In Action Course Empowers Students with Real-World Insights

London-based Northeastern University's Political Arguments In Action course has provided students with an immersive learning experience, leveraging real-world insights from political experts and grassroots activists. The course, led by Associate Professor Gergana Dimova, invited Asif Hussain, a former member of Sadiq Khan's campaign team, and Afsana Salik, a senior community organizer with Citizens UK, as guest lecturers. These experts shared their experiences in politics and activism, offering students practical knowledge on campaign tactics, grassroots organizing, and the impact of language on social change.

Key Takeaways:

• Asif Hussain, a former member of Sadiq Khan's campaign team, shared his experience in running high-stakes campaigns, emphasizing the importance of "optics" and building a "visit" around policy announcements.
• Hussain highlighted the significance of everyday contact with voters, contrary to the conventional notion of politics being solely about grand speeches or set pieces.
• Afsana Salik, a senior community organizer with Citizens UK, explained the organization's grassroots activism approach, including the successful campaign for the "living wage," with over 16,000 employers now signed up to pay the wage recommendation of £12.60 ($16.85) or £13.85 ($18.52) in London.
• The course also featured Citizens UK's partnership with Northeastern University, aiming to encourage students to apply their skills in local politics and contribute to social change.
• Victoria Mincheva, a politics and international relations major, emphasized the benefit of learning from real-life experiences, highlighting that the course took students beyond theoretical politics.
• Tendayi Lamothe, another student, expressed gratitude for the insight into various roles within a campaign, including marketing, data analysis, and door-to-door canvassing.
• Hilla Bruchstein, an Israel-based student, appreciated learning about the process behind campaigns, such as priority-setting and community engagement.

Statistics:

• As of April 2025, the UK minimum wage is £12.21 ($16.33) per hour for those 21 and older.
• Over 16,000 employers are now signed up to pay the "living wage," as recommended by the Living Wage Foundation (£12.60 or £13.85 in London).
• Northeastern University's Political Arguments In Action course has reported internship placements for students with Citizens UK following successful guest lectures.

Sources:

• Daly, P. (July 18, 2025). "Northeastern University's Political Arguments In Action Course Empowers Students with Real-World Insights".