A Women’s Advocacy Committee Town Hall discussion was held this month to brainstorm solutions to campus problems.
Committee members Maya Neal and Biltu Hamda led the meeting. The committee, part of the Student Association and Women’s Resource Center collaborator, helps to “build and empower the community,” according to Neal.
In small groups, Neal led a discussion about creating more student organizations for academic interests and women such as the example of the organization Women in Business.
Neal led a conversation about B.O.S.S. and how some students were denied a ride because they didn’t have all of the necessary credentials. Neal recalled one time being denied a ride from B.O.S.S. around midnight because she didn’t have her M-card.
The webpage for B.O.S.S. says that students need to have both their student ID and their M-card in order to get a ride.
Also, B.O.S.S. does not accent student parents with their children. B.O.S.S. policy says that minors are not allowed in the vehicles for insurance reasons, according to their webpage.
Neal said there are over 1,000 student parents on campus.
Sexual assault was a major topic of discussion. Neal and Hamda spoke about the need for something that can help students understand what it is and what to do if it ever happens. Major issues for the Women’s Resource Center is the lack of reporting on sexual assault, according to Neal.
Another would be undocumented women who are sexually assaulted, which is a situation that would require more attention. Reporting would post fears of contacting immigration. One group came up with an idea of the Norris Health Center hotline for victims of sexual assault so they can meet with someone right away.
One group came up with an idea of the Norris Health Center hotline for victims of sexual assault so they can meet with someone right away.
The committee is working to find a weekly meeting time.
“The committee and the Student Association’s work that we do in general is open to other people’s involvement,” said Neal. “If there were other people interested, they can always get involved.”
Contact the Women’s Resource Center to talk about any issues such as sexual assault or gender violence. The number for counseling is 414-229-2852. To become part of the Student Association, call 414-229-4366 for questions.