My Platform...#1 Diversity Task Force

MY PLATFORM…EXPLAINED
#1 Reform the Diversity Task Force to make it a more student inclusive advisory committee

Currently, the DTF does not meet and has not met regularly since February 2008. The current VP for Diversity has been having difficulty making the committee relevant to campus issues as a task force and also in getting its members to meet regularly.

In terms of diversity-related committees on campus, there are several university committees:
-President’s Multicultural Advisory Board (VP for Diversity serves as advisor)
-Disability Advisory committee (1 at large student member)
-Diversity Achievement Award Committee (1 student at large member)
-Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Concerns Committee (4 students appointed by LGBTA)

There are only a few student-run diversity committees:
-AS Ethnic Student Center Steering Committee
-AS Diversity Task Force

In the past there have been incidents regarding issues of diversity, such as the Roaming Moanies and Chick Fillet fiascos. Controversy over differing perspectives of the student population on campus should be dealt not with in increased confusion but by immediate investigation and action through a designated student run committee that reflects student voices and perspectives. Wouldn’t it have been nice to have an advisory committee assist the AS Board of Directors and related offices in investigating and interpreting these issues? Wouldn’t it have been nice to have student voices reflected in the decisions made by the Associated Students, versus those made by the seven members of the Board of Directors?

As one of the two student-run diversity committees on campus, the Diversity Task Force is crucial in providing a well-rounded reflection of campus perspectives.

My vision for Diversity Task Force:
-Purpose: to act as an advisory committee to the AS Board of Directors on diversity related issues on campus. The Force will provide meaningful analysis on issues and work to promote inclusion, awareness, and solidarity on campus.
-Membership:
Chair, AS VP for Diversity
3 Ethnic Student Center Representatives
1 LGBTA representative
1 Women’s Center Representative
1 Social Issues Resource Center Representative
1 Student-at-large representative from Disability Advisory Committee
3 Students-at-large from Social Issues/Cultural Clubs appointed by Activities Council