Medina on bridging the gap between students and governments and keeping bodies accountable and transparent
The Strand: Why are you running?
Angela Medina: I am running because Victoria College feels like home to me, and I know it is because of the students that allow the space to be filled with warmth, community, and belonging. Through my valuable experience as a First-year Councillor, I found a passion for really listening to students and bringing their thoughts and concerns to as many ears as possible, to ensure that they are seen and have a voice. I would like to increase transparency and accountability within governments by becoming a resource for students to ask questions and learn more about the inner workings of the university. If nothing else I would love to be a friend on campus! To communicate, educate, and advocate for student needs.
TS: What will you do in your power to persuade students to opt in to VUSAC levy fees?
AM: I think the best thing to do, to encourage students to opt in to student fees is to really communicate to them all the benefits and good that student life has to offer.
I think having personal conversations to educate students about how valuable opting in to student fees is the most effective ways to increase those supporting the ChooseUofT movement. It would be valuable to schedule available times, such as during regular office hours, to be able to speak in person with students, to have a conversation about where student fees actually go, as well as all the opportunities available due to VUSAC levy fees. In order to remain accessible to all, it would also be beneficial to have an online means of communication in order to also facilitate those conversations.
TS: What issues do you plan to focus on during your term?
AM: My main goal with this position is to act as a bridge between individuals and student governments/organizations. To amplify student voices as well as to distribute knowledge and awareness. I am interested in helping develop the food security campaign as well as the housing, and mental health campaigns as I know just how difficult it can be to take care of yourself. It can be hard to put even your most basic needs first when you don’t feel like a priority in such an intense academic environment. Furthermore, I am interested in sitting on the Executive Review Committee in order to learn how to keep our student leaders and bodies accountable and transparent with their actions, as well as the Outreach Committee in order to further engage and interact with the student body.
TS: UTSU Director and the Victoria University Senate Representative are the only unopposed positions in the elections, why should someone vote for you rather than abstain?
AM: I believe that there is immense power in choice and everyone deserves to exercise their right to vote as they deem fit. You all have the power to give as well as the power to take away. If an individual decides it would be best to abstain in order to challenge and change an institution, then I encourage them to do so. However, I believe I can act as a voice loud enough to ensure students are heard. I ask you all to use your vote, as one cannot win an election without a fight. Think of it as a practice run for the upcoming Federal Elections!
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
You can vote now until October 4th at voting.utoronto.ca
