Andie Dowd, Ben Pryde and Alex Cho are the Student Association presidential candidates. Casey Syron, Carlo Wood and Spencer Perry are the SA executive vice presidential candidates.
We’re writing in response to the article, “YAF to request exemption if LGBT sensitivity trainings become mandatory” by Victoria Sheridan (online, March 5).
As candidates to represent the Student Association, we believe that diversity and respect are two of the most fundamental principles of an academic institution. The purpose of diversity trainings is not to change beliefs, but rather to educate student leaders so that inclusion can continue to flourish at GW.
While GW is a fairly accepting institution, many students still feel excluded. These trainings would further the University’s inclusive atmosphere and create a support network made up of student leaders.
Educating student leaders with appropriate means of support will foster the welcoming and understanding community of which we all wish to be a part. For these reasons, we agree that the coming SA administration will work to bring education measures for diversity and inclusion to campus. We believe “safe zone” training is a program that fosters diversity, inclusion and understanding through education, and that its implementation at GW is a strong step toward inclusion of LGBT students.
Moving forward, we hope that GW can work together to improve the lives of all students, regardless of their ethnicity, sexual orientation or religion. Working together yields the best solutions, and that’s why we all full-heartedly support any effort to increase the level of inclusivity on campus.
Regardless of the outcome of the SA election, the student body can be confident that the next SA administration will implement proper education for student leaders that represent all of GW’s communities.