Salud, a Spanish word meaning “health”, is a term of endearment and a way of expressing good wishes. It is also the name of a student organization at the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) that was founded by Neil Gajare in 2018.
Neil Gajare, a senior at UPenn, is a passionate advocate for social justice and the empowerment of marginalized communities. He created Salud to provide a platform for students to engage in meaningful conversations about issues of social justice and to create a safe space for students to share their experiences.
The mission of Salud is to create an inclusive and supportive environment for students to explore their identities, engage in meaningful dialogue, and build community. The organization has been successful in creating a space for students to express themselves and to build a community of support.
Salud has hosted a variety of events, including panel discussions, workshops, and social gatherings. These events have provided students with the opportunity to learn more about social justice issues and to engage in meaningful conversations.
In addition to hosting events, Salud has also been active in advocating for social justice. The organization has organized protests and rallies to raise awareness about issues such as racism, sexism, and homophobia. Salud has also been active in advocating for the rights of immigrants and refugees.
Despite the positive experiences that Salud has provided to students, there have been some controversies surrounding the organization. In 2019, Neil Gajare was accused of making anti-Semitic comments during a Salud event. Gajare has since apologized for his comments and has taken steps to ensure that Salud is an inclusive and safe space for all students.
Overall, Salud has been a positive experience for students at UPenn. The organization has provided students with the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about social justice issues and to build a community of support. Despite the controversy surrounding Neil Gajare, Salud has continued to be a safe and inclusive space for students to explore their identities and engage in meaningful dialogue.
“Salud: Wishing Wellness”
