On Monday, Sept. 29, the SGA heard a legislative proposal from the Accessibility Student Council representative Mahrukh Aamir proposing UMKC provide a space open to all, but meant to be a safe space for students with disabilities.
Aamir, a senior studying biomedical engineering, expressed that a space dedicated to students with disabilities is critical to ensuring they have the resources needed to be successful, safe, and seen.
“Our campus currently lacks a welcoming community building for our disabled community. Shared spaces nurture inclusive learning and welcome every student,” Aamir said. “We need a vibrant hub, a gathering ground that unites and includes all voices.”
Aamir said that the aim of the proposed space would be to allow for ASC to have a designated room similar to the Rainbow Lounge or the Office for Student Veterans.
“It would be a space for events, a space for collaboration, a space for students to just do their homework if need be, just a place for them to be themselves,” said Aamir.
Aamir proposed a space like this should be located in one of the buildings in the quad as she feels that is one of the more central areas on campus.
Aamir used the example of blind students, saying that they could have an easier time in the quad due to certain designs that are in place.
“There are some streets that don’t have yield signs and are dangerous to cross over,” Aamir said. “It’s accessible in the fact that buildings are connected through some floors with elevators.”
The proposal was sent to the internal affairs committee for review.
Justin Wu, a new director of internal affairs for the SGA executive board, was appointed during the meeting to a unanimous vote. The previous internal affairs director Shewit Abai was no longer a student this semester.
During Wu’s address to the senate, he stressed the importance of curating a better relationship between SGA and the students that it serves.
“Communication is very important,” said Wu, a junior in the six year BA/MD program. “Transparency between SGA and the student body is lacking in that department.”
Don Stansberry, the newly appointed vice provost for student affairs, had the opportunity to introduce himself to SGA.
Stansberry discussed what he believes is the significance of student government.
“It’s important that you agree and it’s important that you disagree because there are students just like you, that think like you and you’re representing all those students,” Stansberry said. “For us to be the best campus we can be and for every student to have the best experience, we need everyone around the table.”
Stansberry assumed this role on Aug. 11. For more information on Stansberry visit UMKC Insider.
