The Strand: What made you decide to run for Equity Commissioner?
It was something I thought about doing because, when I was in high school, I was involved in a lot of activities related to equity. I am a student at Vic, and I am here all the time, and I want to make sure that when students feel comfortable and safe building communities at Vic.
What are some barriers or issues that you think currently exist for students?
One of the main barriers or issues, I guess, is visibility and feeling represented. If there aren’t resources, finding a pathway to make sure that there are resources to feel seen and feel heard within the community. I think that making sure that students have a mechanism, where if they have concerns or questions that they have a place where they feel that they can be heard and that something will be done.
What skills or experiences do you have that you think would make you a good choice for Equity Commissioner?
My high school was a very similar experience to Victoria College. It was a similar demographic. A lot of the stuff that I did [in high school] with Black History Month, our pride week, and Indigenous Education Week, was presenting to people who weren’t directly involved. Finding a way to make other people care and to make other people listen and want to understand. That’s kind of work that I want to continue doing through this position.
What are some initiatives that you plan to take on in the role of Equity Commissioner for next year?
One of my ideas surveying the student body to get an authentic sense of how students are feeling and being represented. It’s hard to get representation within VUSAC itself, because it’s mostly white, and there is a specific demographic of people involved with on-campus activities. There needs to be a way to access information for other people. Another thing is having more consistency with equity throughout the year. We do equity training, but [need to make] sure it’s there’s a way to continue throughout the year. Maybe checking in or making sure that members a club know that the equity commission exists if they ever have any questions or concerns. Finally, increasing visibility. The Equity Commission had cultural events this year, so making sure that students know that those events are happening. Increasing that visibility so that students that are interested have access to it.
Last question is, do you have a favourite earth element?
Do mean from like the periodic table?
More like water, earth, fire, or air.
I always battle between water and fire, but I’ll choose water. Recently, someone told me I had water-bender hands. I guess I would love to be Katara. She’s cool; she has cool hair. I think water is fun—very fluid—I like that.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity
