Full Senate
November 18, 2015
6:30 PM, Big 12 Room
I.
Call to Order
a. 6:32 p.m.
b. Relinquish chair to Lauren Arney, senior senator
A. CLAS 26 – Corbin Stephens
B. Jessie, Zach and Adam on the Agenda
1. Passes 55-20-5
C. Motion to put Dr. Tammara Durham at top of the agenda
1. Approved
II.
Guest Speaker:
III.
Approval of the Minutes
A. November 4 meeting minutes
1. Approved
IV.
Officer Reports
A. Dr. Tammara Durham, Vice Provost of Student Affairs
a. This is a Student Senate business meeting, so I expect that all rules and
procedures. If it feels like we are deviating from the protocol or if there are
concerns for students, rules will be suspended and the meeting will be
cancelled.
B. Jessie Pringle, Student Body President
a. Thank you for being hear – glad everyone was able to make it. Tonight
shows when a community has a need for a change.
b. Students are being seen and being heard, and this shows the need for critical
thinking. Today at Kansas Board of Regents Meeting, everyone was thinking
about what is happening at KU, within Kansas and nationwide. The state had
the opportunity today to make it their commitment. The meeting went
from 10-12, and it was talking about for over an hour. We discussed about
what our job is as leaders. We had the ability to talk to those who had the
most power in the state of Kansas – the Regents.
c. Chair of Regents touched on subject of inclusive, though he didn’t go as far
as students need him to him. I took the opportunity to say that these issues
need to be taken seriously. It isn’t about saying it matters, but about
devoting time, resources and efforts. KBOR hears these issues and sees the
importance.
d. Gun survey will close November 25th – we will urge the Docking Institute
to release the results early.
e. Lifeline 911 will go through in the spring – we are hopeful that it goes
through early.
i. Went through Kansas Legislature last year and was stuck in a
conference committee. Allows folks who need to go to hospital and
are underage to be exempt from getting in trouble.
f. We have released our 11-point plan. There has been a lot of thought about
Senate, and I have considered about what we can do about senate to
radically change it to ensure that the structure of senate is one that is
inclusive to all. I hope for your input,
g. Addressing the elephant in the room: there are things that haven’t been
properly addressed. I am not resigning, I am not going to leave this body
behind. This tone was set last Friday, and I understand that I need to change,
adapt and learn a few things. Senate can also change and has the opportunity
to ask what we are doing, what we aren’t, what we can do better.
h. These are serious issues. Racism on campus is bigger than me and bigger
than Student Senate. It is bigger than the University of Kansas. Thing big,
senators. Thank big, KU. We can do this together, it is a continuous
process, and I am committed to that process.
i. This is about reaching out of your circle. I have great friends in Senate, but
this is about those who aren’t in Student Senate – it’s about the people we
represent. I do not put this position before the students I serve – not as a
matter of pride, but as a duty to everyone: senators, Rock Chalk Invisible
Hawk, everyone. We will be accountable.
i. Garrett Farlow: On your fifth point, you mentioned veterans and
active service members – will this affect ROTC?
1. Absolutely. Thank you for your input.
ii. Nanyi Deng: You talk about changing senate’s structure – can you
be more specific?
1. I don’t know the exact specifics, but thinking about the way
things are held and the elections. Everyone can join a
committee, but what if we had two bodies, one elected and
one not.
iii. Harrison Baker: One of the demands listed was the creation of a
multicultural senate?
1. I think that is a great question – we can do both.
iv. Riley Botz: Do you think multicultural government would further
divide us?
1. I think we have to look at it and see what proposals are out
there. We want all voices from those who have concerns to
have input. We should revise the structure of senate to
include more voices. The multicultural senate has some
advantages, and if that is what students need, that is a
potential.
v. Sophie Wang: In terms of talking those in senate moving forward,
do you feel that previously we have not discussed enough moving
forward?
1. Tonight is a great opportunity to hear the senate’s input on
moving forward. Tonight is the first step in really listening
to the senate, and we talk about moving forward, how do
we talk about bringing senators into the office and get more
people involved? That may be uncomfortable, but it is about
putting politics behind.
vi. Ramiro Sarmiento: Could you provide specifics on why students
would want a separate body?
1. I think what you said answers the question. The failure to
be represented is the reason why. We haven’t reached out
enough.
vii. Megan Dennis – deferred to constituent: Do you have a timeline for
your plan?
1. This is the feedback we have received, and a timeline will be
coming out on Friday.
C. Zach George, Student Body Vice President
a. I want to take this time to address the events that have occurred in the past
week and the steps we can take to make Student Senate lead the charge to
create change.
b. Last Wednesday, our university came together to talk about race. There
were personal stories, and it was heartbreaking hearing students talk about
their pain. A lot of students aren’t getting a good Jayhawk experience. There
has been a lot of processing and self-reflection. What we have done and
what we haven’t done. It is easy to try and defend myself, but it is clear that
I haven’t done enough. I acknowledge that and I am sorry. We have to focus
on the future and we have to come together. We can’t pit students against
each other. The answer isn’t dividing the Student Senate. We need
improvement, not impeachment. We are working tirelessly to address the
concerns that have been made and are taking these seriously.
c. We are encouraging to lower the spending cap, increase voting times,
adding additional opportunities to get involved in Senate. Extend voting
rights to the Director of Diversity of Inclusion.
d. We must use the student voice: develop a hotline, Jayhawk Jumpstart,
working with University Senate to have mandatory cultural competency
training.
e. These changes require student and faculty support. When we meet with
administration, we will put pressure on them to put pressure on these
issues. I believe good leadership requires constant evaluation. I am
committed to doing my best and working with all of you to address these
critical issues.
f. Student Senate can shine right now – we must act, but we must act
together.
i. Cody Wood – deferred to constituent: Some of these changes
require trust, and after you didn’t stand up for Black Lives Matter,
how do you expect to get it?
1. During that important forum, I stood in support of Black
Lives Matter. I didn’t stand for the 15 RCIH demands. I
needed time to listen before action, and after this weekend,
we are ready to act. We hope to create trust and remedy
all problems that have been created.
ii. Logan Sutton: Why are you encouraging to lower the spending cap?
1. The original bill passed with an increase to $2000. We felt
that was appropriate, but many did not. After realizing the
damage and difficulty it creates, that was the wrong
decision. I was wrong on that.
iii. Omar Rana: How are you going to help get people into Senate who
historically haven’t?
1. I think it is about building trust. People are hurting, and they
have seen bad actions in the past. We need to correct past
wrongs to rebuild trust in the Student Body to help create a
more inclusive body.
iv. Nobus Oghenekaro – deferred to constituent: What will we do
about students of color who are international?
1. I think that goes into appointed senate seats.
v. Sophie Wang: What actions will be taken after students report to
the hotline?
1. Hopefully they can be referred to IOA. This is for people
who have faced discrimination. People don’t want to fill out
a form online – they will have someone to talk to help
them.
vi. Harrison Baker – deferred to a constituent: You mentioned RCIH
was not worth your political capital? Why haven’t you changed your
mind?
1. I never said that. I wanted time to process so that we have
proper deliberation. We didn’t reach to RCIH before but
we reached out after our plan.
2. We didn’t reach out before because action was expected
from us, and we wanted to do what we could as fast as we
could to show that we are prepared to take action.
vii. Alex Kinkead: What do you plan to do outside of reflect and
apologize for marginalized students?
1. I often let my own personal politics influence my behavior
and actions. I need to represent all students, and I can’t let
my own personal convictions get in the way. One of those
is reaching out to those who have been holding us
accountable. Sometimes it is difficult to put ourselves in
difficult positions, but it needs to happen.
viii. Dylan Jones: How does Student Senate plan to address retention
rates?
1. We want to create a committee to develop action. We
need to make sure that we have student representation on
that committee. We have a Retention committee within
Student Senate – we need to get that functioning.
ix. Harrison Baker: You want to change campus, why did you speak
against mandating gender-neutral language?
1. I felt that by mandating it we could potentially lead to
honest mistakes that put people in uncomfortable positions
where they could be kicked out. I understand I was
advocating more for the process, and I should have done
better.
2. Why did you say it would delegitimize student senate?
a. I think what I was going for was comparing it to
what has going on in the past. I supported the spirit
of the bill and was a sponsor for creating genderneutral pronouns.
x. Landri James: According to specific accusations, did you tokenize
Freddy Gipp?
1. I had true intentions – Freddy Gipp is a good friend of mine.
I was with him when the Royals won the World Series.
2. What is the process of the Native American Advisory
Board?
a. The role is that this population has been suffering at
the University of Kansas. Our recruitment is also
low. Our reasoning behind that initiative was to
create an opportunity to address retention and
hope that it could be a model for other represented
communities.
D. Adam Moon, Chief of Staff
a. We have been conducting interviews for the Elections Commission – the
committee has nominated Caleb
i. Logan Sutton: What is your past involvement?
1. Was a replacement senator and was on Rights Committee. I
wasn’t on any coalitions
ii. Frankie Hernandez: Has there been any applications that weren’t
white men?
1. No, there have not been.
iii. Tymon Wall: As a member of the Elections Commission, what will
you do to ensure that smaller coalitions aren’t unfairly treated?
1. One is lowering the spending cap – anything above $1000
allows smaller coalitions to get blown out of the water.
There should be better outreach and education to work
with underserved communities to ensure that those who
don’t have a voice can get into senate and be able to
understand the elections code.
iv. Garrett Farlow: Could you speak to your involvement and how you
see yourself fitting into the EC?
1. I serve on Mock Trial so am familiar with legal language. I
don’t have a lot of connections, but given this opportunity, I
can reach out to new groups and help reach out to them.
v. Omar Rana: Would you feel comfortable adjusting to potential
changes and what is an equitable election to you?
1. It depends on what is getting changed but I don’t think it’ll
be a problem. An equitable election is one where everyone
has the right and opportunity. We need feedback from
student body on how we can better reach out to folks.
Hopefully people can see the good that senate does.
vi. Daisy Tackett: What will we do to get more women and students of
color on the committee?
1. I’m not going to stand here and say that I know every
problem, but we can better represent by having a good
dialogue.
vii. Sophie Wang: Do those on the commission go through cultural
competency training?
1. No, but that is a good possibility going forward.
viii. Chancellor Adams: Can you speak on people of color?
1. When it comes to people of color, I think it is a matter of
creating dialogue and creating outreach with those
individuals. If we are a committee of white men, that poses
a challenge, but I hope the commission can talk to
individuals in the organizations like the Black Student Union.
ix. APPROVED, 71-6,2
b. Spent last week at the Big 12 Conference. Was able to speak on a campus
safety breakout session. There was a big topic on guns on campus. KU and
K-State recommitted ourselves to efforts to recommit ourselves to not
having guns on campus. We also talked about bringing drones on campus.
c. We have a large problem with creating curriculum in engineering to have
more women involved.
d. Looking at cultural competency training in SILC for student leaders across
campus.
e. Election Subsidy: Working out kinks to figure out how the process would
work.
f. I have decided to still serve. I am excited to have this conversation and how
we can move campus forward. It is important to make KU a more inclusive
place. I have always loved KU and am excited to continue working to help
make this a better place.
g. Questions:
i. Michaella Schick: You talked about the associate dean of engineering
– is this is a plan you plan to spread to other schools?
1. Absolutely, I started at Engineering because I am familiar
with it, but I want to work with senators in different
schools.
ii. Cody Wood – deferred to constituent: Excited you’re excited to
have these conversations, how will you personally make these
changes?
1. I need to have these conversations. A lot of my job is
internal so I will be working a lot on what senate can do to
be more inclusive. Examine how a multicultural student
government would look at KU. It comes with continued
self-reflection. I’m not perfect, but as I continue to move
forward, I think I have work to do. When I was in high
school, I didn’t see problems with demeaning words, and
I’m taking steps to change things for the rest of the year and
my life.
iii. Nobus Oghenekaro: 4 white candidates for Elections Commission –
is it possible to require at least one to be multicultural?
1. That is absolutely possible and I would like to discuss how
that works out.
iv. Sophie Wang: How are these conversations just now coming to life
for you?
1. I came from a community that didn’t have to confront these
issues. Honestly, my journey didn’t start until a bit later in
my college career because I have never ben challenged.
v. Garrett Farlow: Why was the decision made to go to the Big 12
Student Government Conference?
1. Omar, in response to the 36 who voted against extending
question time: If you don’t want to have these
conversations, there is the door. Leave.
2. The money had been spent and we had a job to do down
there. We felt it would be irresponsible use to go down
there. In terms of releasing the statement, we were working
out what to say
vi.
vii.
viii.
ix.
x.
xi.
xii.
3. Follow-up: You read your draft to students – were Black
Lives addressed?
a. It didn’t explicitly address anti-black racism. It was a
draft so something we were still working on.
Ramiro Sarmiento: Before the forum, you have been aware of
concerns that students have had. Why now? Why didn’t you listen
before?
1. I think that prior to Wednesday, concerns had been heard.
This conversation didn’t start on Wednesday for me – I
have thought about a lot of issues being brought to light on
campus. Maybe Wednesday and the actions at Missouri
made us realize that these are urgent issues. This has been
going on for a while, and now I know that we need
expediency.
Nitin Kanukolanu – deferred to constituent: Considering you want
to be culturally competent, why are you referring to international
students as abnormal?
1. I don’t recall saying that, and if so it was a misstep.
Frankie Hernandez: Being the author of raising the spending cap,
why did you come to a realization of lowering it?
1. I have talked to senators who opposed it, senators who felt
uncomfortable with a $2000 spending cap. I can see that I
was wrong. I see that was a misstep.
Omar Rana: As one of only a couple people of color on our staff,
what does being a person of color mean to you?
1. That is a personal question, and my background growing up,
and it makes me wonder if I lost part of my background as
being part Mexican.
Emma Anderson: How do you think requiring cultural competency
training will change things?
1. I think it was a good start – Colors of KU and Leadership
are also great opportunities. We should continue to look
for additional types of training going forward.
Baxter Vaz – deferred to constituent: In reference to the trainings,
the university requires trainings for sexual harassment and other
trainings, and what specific democratic process can be tested to
ensure that folks are actually being culturally competent?
1. There are trainings across the university now. I think the
goal is to continue to expand that. As an exec staff, we
went through SafeZone training. We need to continue the
education within our senate.
Sophia Templin: Since you’ve been office, has there been a meeting
of faculty and student leaders to discuss changes on campus?
1. Conversations have gone on at different levels of the
university. My role is incredibly internal and I’m not sure
what all has gone on at the higher levels.
2. Deferred to Jessie: Zach and I have a lot of opportunities to
meet with faculty, and it allows opportunity for more
students.
xiii. Nanyi Deng: Do you have any ideas on how to better understand
international students?
1. I want to look to other leaders in the international
community. It is a prevalent group in the School of
Engineering. This is something I need to work on going
forward.
xiv. Jacob Coons – deferred to constituent: Do you believe you are
equipped to address students of color on campus? Is this sincere?
1. I am motivated, and in terms of skill set, and we have the
ability to work with administration to take these concerns
and find solutions. We attend to address this going forward
with our actions and plans we have going forward. I want to
work together with everyone to address these concerns.
The first step to regain trust is to take action.
E. Shegufta Huma, University Senate, Vice President
i. I am Shegufta Huma, I am the university senate vice president and a
jr/sr class senator. I was asked by StudEx to provide information
regarding the last week. The voting members were joined by
representatives that weren’t part of student senate, RCIH, and
members from the community. Motion of no confidence by based
on lack of action from the three officers thoughts their terms to
face issues presented by multicultural students. Lack of response let
the committee to passed this no confidence. During the 3-hour
meeting, the 3 were asked to many times and were silent. The plan
of action did not adequate.
ii. Shegufta began to describe the reasons for impeachment
1: Joint senate: VP George suppressed questions regarding
discussion on the senate director of diversity and inclusion
based on fabricated rules
2: supported LBC but not issues our own campus was
having
3: no support to Kynnedi grant that was charged with
4: at the Town hall,, students consistently stated the student
senate did not respect their voice
7:
iii. K=Lauren: what that was all about we want to protect the integrity
of the impeachment proceedings. We had a little bit of discussion
and decided that Shegufta is going to continue her speech but is not
going to field any questions because then just because a discussion,
To be transparent I was just served the papers as the senior senator
right before this meeting and I will be emailing out the related
parties I will be pulling names for people that will be o this
committee ad that is the point at which the discussion starts.
iv. Alex: I was just ensuring transparency
1. Yeah, anyone can come
v. Kellor: when will it be selected
1. Within three days time.
vi. Logan: do members need to be present to be eligible
1. No. they will be contacted and will have to make the
meetings
vii. When you have decided who is on the committee will the
discussion start then?
1. No’
viii. Madeline: because the majority of senate doesn’t identify with all of
the issues, whats the probability that all committee members don’t
identify with the concerns?
1. I didn’t write the rules, I am just following them. Record will
be public within n 5 days
ix. Shegufta: when I left off I was on 6 referring to president pringle
being on phone. The 7th point quotes a rights senator who said
people supported elections reform because they were told it was
their only chance. The eighth relates to when COS moon moved
studex’s meeting. The 9tyh states the admission of chief o staff
moon’s that he had not talked with multicultural organizations even
though he said he had done so. The 10th is the leadership saying
they need time to reflect on them. The 11th was their statement of
support that was empty rhetoric. The twelfth point was that pringle
had a chance to veto elections reform in light of the raised spending
cap. The 13th point raises the concern of RCIH and speaks of the
concerns of the body to the senate. The 14ht is that the executives
hadn’t shown support until they were demanded to do so. The 15th
is their complete failure to address the issues in retention. The 16th
points out the lack of inclusivity for students with other gender
identities. The 17th point elaborates how moon sent out minutes for
studex that were late with falsifications of his own vote This list isn’t
exclusive.
Lauren: I want the process of impeachment to be followed per Rules and Regulations.
F. Tomas Green, Policy and Development Director
i. I serve on the exec staff as the policy and development director. It
has been a life-changing weekend u. I have been part of these
conversations since I came on campus my freshman year. I sought
out the OMA to have the conversations and I have learned a lot
from this process even coming from Washington. My grandpa
taught at ku for over 40 years and he is lauded for his excellence in
teaching and research, but in his time here he worked to advance
those who were not being heard in engineering. When I came to
KU, I saw myself as continuing his legacy to start conversations and
to work as an ally for those who need it. I want to talk about
allyship. It is hard. In identifying myself as an ally, I’ve learned a lot
about myself as an ally. In the conversations after Ferguson, my
heart was sour and raw and I could barely think afterwards. The
next day I woke up with a clear conscience that I could move on. It
is something that is very unfreezing for a lot of people. So we talk a
lot about engaging communities. I want to talk about engaging
ourselves. Just tonight I was talking to one of my fraternity brothers
about how guns on campus poses a unique trouble to people of
color. I think it is very important for us to think about engaging with
our peers. We were taught at TedX last year by Jameelah Jones that
we need to be allies an that it is one of the most important things
that we can do as student leaders. When it comes to Jessie, Zach,
Adam and myself we are all still here because we have committed
to being allies. In being allies yes we are saying we are not perfect
and we can never be. I know conversations are hard and are
laborious and we get tired of them, but it is our way to engage our
peers who are not even in the room tonight so they can open up
their hearts and minds so we can make change. I am for all of you to
think critically because precious taught us that. As critical thinkers
we need to think about those issues because we all have pressures
and we all have privilege. This process of democracy is long and not
fair, but its=s what we are stuck with. I propose we use this
process. I am open for questions and I have been working on some
of our policies
ii. Questions:
1. Jacey, deferred to constituent: Thank you, will there be a
process within the cultural sensitivity or other trainings to
allow the senators or student body to remove those that
are not deemed as competent by their actions?
a. We would look to our code of ethics and the office
of COS because that is codified in our preamble.
2. Ramiro: hey Tomas. What would you say to the students
that do not trust our senate leadership due to, you know,
multiple occasions in which it has been demonstrated that
they were not going to listen?
a. I would say that it is important to recognize this
idea of allyship. That this idea of allyship is involving
within us and as we are moving forward we have
unfortunately the privilege to bring these
conversations to table that others can’t. Those are
places we really aren’t having this dialogue. I think
there is a trust that has been broken in terms of
representation
3. Madeline: As an ally I have been told that the best type of
allyship is to give your power and platform to the people
that are facing oppression, do you think that is the best
type?
a. Allyship takes a variety of forms and on the
situation you are in and when you look at allyship in
a global perspective, sometimes it is best to give
them space to rise up. Looking at the times the best
things we can do is create space at tables
b. Madeline: just cause someone is committed to a
cause does that mean they are needed to lead it
i. One of the things we do as a representative
leaders is to look where we are needed. It
is our position to make sure we are
opening these things up to people. No
matter who is in offices it is their duty to
acknowledge identities.
4. Dylan: I was wondering if you could talk about the shuttle
initiative?
a. I haven’t followed up with leadership. It may be
needed to put it on the backburner to focus on
these issues. There was going to be a survey two
days ago but at this times its on the backburner.
We also have course evaluations that we are
working on and hoping we can see it in a new light
and improve them to allow for greater knowledge.
5. Alex Kinkead: So there is the term ally, which is someone
who supports but there are also other terms. In places of
power should we have an ally, an accomplice or someone
who can lead from personal experiences?
a. When I went to ally training at OMA we didn’t talk
about it, but if its new its great. As I was speaking to
before, its our job to represent people outside of
ourselves. No matter who is the leader, it will be
something that they are working for. Its more I
have to put in and it is a commons struggle.
6. Jacey: defer to constituent: Do you think it would be
appropriate given the climate and lack of trust to have some
members resign instead of go through the laborious process
of impeachment?
a. We have limited time left here and because
democracy is prolonged I think our best action is to
move forward as we are.
G. Stephonn Alcorn, Government Relations Director
a. I’m the government relations director. I’ve learned a lot this week and I’m
not talking about what I learned at the student government conference. Add
my story to the larger body of stories. Io want to do this because I know
you can do better. My parents were immigrants. As a kid, it was easy to be
used to the JOCO privileges. I remember growing up not being able to
spend the night or got toe friends houses because of the color of my skin.
These are the memories that have shaped me. In high school my father
passed away Easter Sunday. When he past I lost my greatest privilege and I
knew I needed to go to college. My mom gave me love and support. My
time has been spent around people that are privileged. I’ve struggled with
money. I’ve sold things on Craigslist and worked odd jobs. I worked to get
where I am today. When I came to KU, I was shocked to see how so many
of my peers already had the resource to be successful. We are all better off
when we understand the realties that minority students fell at college. It is
our highest duty to understand what these students got through. Students
who come forum the same background as myself wanted to succeed but
didn’t have the resources and had to leave. KU needs to be committed to
placing the same value on every student’s life. The time is long overdue.
Jessie, zach, Adam, myself RCIH we are all with you. I know that RCIH is
not only advocating for the dignity of my life but also the dignity of all other
lives. If we want to build a diverse student body we must understand
multicultural students. We as a senate must do better. I’m confident this
university and senate leadership understand the pain and we will act. The
systematic racism cant be solved by top-down, it doesn’t happen over night.
Changing the hearts and minds is what senate id ready to act on.
b. Questions:
i. Omar: beautiful speech. As government relations I know you work
with legislators. Have you had any conversations about Brownback’s
action to deny Syrian refugees access to Kansas?
1. No, but I’m going to echo Obama’s saying that all lives are
sacred and that by denying refuges we are denying the
original promise. Hopefully we can take to legislature.
ii. Sophie: Being in support of RCIH how did you reflect upon
demands?
1. I took all 15 into consideration – It is a shame there isn’t a
director of oma. I agree we need to increase domestic
diversity,, they are fighting for the dignity of all our lives
2. Sophie: in you position what steps are you going to take to
ensure the voices of all students will be put forward?
a. One of the demands is to ben guns on campus and
I’ve been working on that with pringle. All semester
long we have been working on survey all students
to see how they feel. On the other demands I’m
going to work and I know that the last week or so
we have been working on actions.
3. Frankie: One of the things was amending the election code
to let people vote through the night. I believe you were the
author of the amendment?
a. Yes I was, there were some concerns in where
folks could vote late at night. Ultimately I have
come to realize that it is most important that all
students have access to vote when they are able to.
b. Frankie: what led you to this realization?
i. Seeing the backlash from it. When I made
the amendment it was so we could have
some sort of integrity, but when I saw how
it was received of course I wanted to
change it.
4. Jacey: defer to constituent: There are certain bills and
decisions that were later reversed. I think that ties into a
understanding where you aren’t always going to make the
perfect choice. You mentioned impeachment might not be
correct, but how much time should be allotted to students
who aren’t culturally competent to continue with the
position?
a. To echo off Tomas, it is up to us to educate our
peers and know that change doesn’t happen
overnight. I think there is a difference between
differing opinions and someone who is disrespecting
an identity. At that point, someone should be
removed.
5. Quinn: defer to constituent: Hello. I was wondering why the
president shouldn’t not resign?
a.
I feel like the president shouldn’t resign and I will
say that is because the job as public servant is never
done. I’ve been with Jessie. I’ve been here working
with her for the past 6 days and feel like she is
working hard. She has a conviction to help every
student. I’ve seen her real tears and I know she’s
the person best at in office. I go with her to KBOR
meetings and she has the connections and is willing
to fight for students. She’s going to be the one who
stand up for students.
6. Jacob: deferred to constituent: So would you believe that
having emotional sympathy is equally as suitable to doing
tangible action. You just stated presidents and those in
leadership having sympathy, is that enough to be
representative for large amounts of student body?
a. Maybe that was the wrong example but anyone can
take action on anything. But when n it hits you in
the gut that’s when you’re going to take action.
You’ve got a leader that is posed to do what’s best
for our university.
7. Madeline- deferred to constituent: Hello, can I do a preface.
So in the school, of social welfare we talk about cultural
competency as something you cant achieve, just work
toward. I hear you and the speakers say we need time to
learn. I think three people have asked this, but how long do
minority students have to wait for people to achieve
cultural competency, how long do we have to wait besides
impeaching people. How long do we have to wait for people
to try to be culturally competent when we could be taking
action?
a. That time is long overdo.
8. Harrison – deferred to constituent: So 6 months ago at the
transition meeting senator were silenced and marginalized
not given the fight to speak, one of the first things Shegufta
mentioned. After that meeting I and another student spoke
to Jessie and Zach about the silencing and then with you and
the rest of exec and told you that action had to be had. In
this instant there tears, especially with Jessie. Why are her
emotions and the empathy shown now supposed to validate
our reasoning for giving a second chance when 6 months
ago they didn’t?
a. So lets put aside her emotions. Jessie has the tools
to represent every single one of us in this room,
she has the tools and now more than ever is that
time and I know Jessie has taken action in a number
of ways. The times I am at the table with her, she’s
gotten something done. Every leader is not perfect
and lets understand that we all have continuous
learning to do.
9. Cody: defer to constituent: First want to say thank you and
I see you. I guess my question is two part, since you talk so
highly of the President and Vice President, have you ever
shared what you just shared with her and why has it taken
so long for them, if so? Why now?
a. I’ve never shared any of that in its entirety with
anyone. Maybe that’s how I was brought up. I’ve
never ever shared any of that with anyone outside
of my family. This conversation made me realize I
was a part of a large conversation. They didn’t hear
my story but that was my decision.
10. Alex: defer to constituent: I’m actually one of the senators
who Kat said was shot down. There were tears in the
room. It still happened. And it still hurt deep down. I’ve
seen it occur again tonight. I don’t think it was a valid
reason for a recess when Shegufta was speaking. When
people get uncomfortable when people of color speak why
is there a recess.? We are brought into senate believing we
have a voice and we are shut down. Why do keep we keep
being shut down?
a. Lauren: I don’t want to silence anyone. I interrupted
not because who was speaking but what was being
spoken about. I want to ensure that the process is
kept with integrity. She was allowed to speak and
wanted to ensure we had a conversation. We need
to make sure the discussion goes forward on this
topic. Other than that I have not shut down anyone
else. I’m just trying to follow procedures to ensure
everyone can speak.
b. Stephonn: I value you and you are valued.
11. Riley: Most of you all know we work within a democratic
process and most of the discussion is we haven’t taken
enough time. Can you further explain what setbacks this
would include if we were to impeach our president and vice
president?
a. Ramiro: I was trying to clarify because earlier we
couldn’t field questions because of the integrity of
the impeachment process and I’m hearing a lot
about it like questions as to who the president, vice
president and chief of staff are that have specifically
related to the process.
b. Lauren: The discussion is specifically over the
papers. Those were served and those will start. we
cant talk about the specific points of the
impeachment papers. If at any point please let me
know if a point relates:
c. Stephonn: I won’t answer to protect the process.
12. Nobus: the cultural competency training. I am a freshman so
I don’t know how long the training has been but to me the
people have been taking and we still have issues. Is there a
way to make the training more effective to send a message
that students need to be more inclusive?
a. Tomas: I don’t know if I’m qualified but its been an
informal process for a while. Cody and Precious talk
to all the self fellows. As far as senate this is the first
year all have had competency training
13. Jacey – deferred to constituent: This has not been answered
but has been asked in many forms. I don’t think what is
being asked is for impeachment. I think what is asked for is
resignation, which would be a much faster process. Why
can we not put people in place who are not significantly
culturally competent at this time?
a. I think that they are culturally competent, but like I
said there is plenty of work to do and we must
work together and change doesn’t happen over
night
14. Ramiro – deferred to constituent: Jameelah: Hi, there is
something here called a rhetorical message. I have a very
huge problem with the way we are interrogating Stephonn’s
politics. It is unfair we are asking from the black perspective.
15. Alex Kinkead differed to constituent: Why do you think
Jessie, Zach or Adam have never asked you of your
experiences?
a. I’ve been the type of person to mask that type of
stuff. You see me smiling, but I don’t make it
evident.
H. Angela Murphy, Graduate Affairs Director
a. Proxy: Amy Schumacher, Graduate Senator
b. Reading via proxy because Angela’s request to Skype in was denied.
c. Last year there was a sexual assault center that was presented – they are
looking to hire a director.
d. Last Wednesday, there was a town hall discussion. Ins COMS 130,
instructors have to take COMS 930. The day after the town hall meeting,
one person asked how to talk about this in our classrooms. The professor
said she doesn’t see racism on this campus. It didn’t matter because we
mostly teach white students. We wrote her a letter, and as she read it, she
laughed and scoffed. Our letter is public. There is racism on this campus.
e. We need to act. There is discrimination. The leadership abilities of the top
three in this senate have been called into question. It is imperative that we
do better, starting tonight.
i. Camille Douglas – differed to constituent: Do you think Dr.
Kornett, the instructor in question, her continued employment is a
threat?
1. She created a hostile and unsafe environment. We have
called for her termination.
ii. Tomas Green: We have looked into faculty rights and
responsibilities. Where do you think the fault lies?
1. The Communications Studies is behind us. I’ve looked
through the rules, and it is hard clarifying – the language
isn’t specific. We need stronger language.
I.
iii. Nobus Oghenekaro: Do you think the resignation is the best way
for the senate to show that they are inclusive?
1. If there isn’t trust, ask if someone else can better do that
trust.
iv. Garrett Farlow: Why was Angela not allowed to Skype?
1. Madeline Sniezek: When she asked to Skype she was told
her only option was to have a proxy read a statement.
2. Isaac: That isn’t true, it was said in the staff meeting that
Angela could Skype in if she wanted to.
v. Madeline Dickerson: Where can we sign to support you?
1. We are going through every channel – there is a lack of
external pressure, so all of you can help with that.
vi. Sophie Wang: Do you think the 11 proposals Senate has proposed
are enough?
1. The feedback that I have been hearing is that the lack of a
timeline isn’t enough.
vii. Daisy Tackett, deferred to constituent: Could you elaborate just
how terrible Dr. Andrea Kornett is?
1. One of my colleagues initially defended her, because she
didn’t call someone the “n” word. She created an unsafe
space – “rhetorical terror.” We don’t feel safe around her.
It isn’t just ignorance but unwillingness to change.
viii. Frankie Hernandez: Where can we find minutes from StudEx? Can
staff meetings be transcribed?
1. Deferred to Adam: That could be done.
ix. Riley Botz: What kind of investigation processes do we have for
these type of situations?
1. You can report through IOA – as well as going through the
department.
Madeline Sniezek and Allyssa Castilleja, Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer
a. This cycle we have $4,275 going through. Strongly encourage everyone to
go to the Tunnel of Oppression over at the OMA – tomorrow and Friday
from 10-5
b. Next Friday is the last legislative deadline for the semester.
c. Questions:
i. Garrett Farlow: Could you go on the record and tell us what
happened at the staff meeting?
1. It is going to be 8-1 since that is how it has been. She was
asked to call in or Skype and it was said that it is
unprecedented. Someone offered to instead have someone
give a speech for her.
2. It was implied that it wouldn’t be ideal, but the option
wasn’t closed.
3. Tomas – the issue with skyping in was the connection
coming in. It wasn’t anything against Angela
ii. Frankie Hernandez: To your recollection, who was there?
1. List of executive members.
iii. Jacey Bishop: We have a lot of unallocated MEF funding – what ways
could we help?
1. We had the idea of going through the cash flow to see
which groups have gone through funding in past years and
haven’t gone through this year.
iv. Madeline Dickerson: We only have two bills going through, does
this relate to the accountability of senators?
1. Not sure if it is miscommunication of the groups. I see that
groups haven’t been as active as a whole.
v. Sophie Wang: In regards to not enough student groups, do you
think that it could relate to constituent groups is not effective?
1. I personally don’t think it is effective. If you think of a better
way – please let us know. We want to help.
V.
Consent Agenda
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
2016-074: A BILL TO FUND KU MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION CLUB
2016-081: A BILL TO FUND KU BELIEVE AUTISM MATTERS
2016-082: A BILL TO FUND STYLE ON THE HILL
2016-084: A BILL TO FUND INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ASSOCIATION
2016-085: A BILL TO FUND GRADUATE ENGINEERING ASSOCIATION
2016-086: A BILL TO FUND THE COMMUNICATION STUDIES GRADUATES
STUDENT ORGANIZATION
G. 2016-087: A BILL TO FUND SPEECH-LANGUAGE-HEARING ASSOCIATION
a. Approved by voice vote
V1.
Regular Agenda
A. 2016-032: A BILL TO FUND STUDENTS UNITED FOR REPRODUCTIVE AND
GENDER EQUITY
a. Jana Mackey Distinguished Lecture Series was a KU student and was
dedicated to sexual assault victims. However, her ex-boyfriend murdered
her. Her parents want her family remembered with awareness.
b. This year’s guest speaker Leslie Morgan Steiner. She has quite a number of
accolades – wrote a 2009 memoir “Crazy Love.” Has done Ted Talks and
speeches about intimate partner violence.
c. This is education that students don’t get anywhere in their schooling.
d. SURGE is very involved in the process – a SURGE member has been the
one in contact with LMS’s agent. The event will be February 11th in Spooner
Hall and is open to the public.
e. The bill back in September asked for almost 3k. Actual number is $2,197.
Over $5000 has been provided by MEF. OMA has pledged money, as well as
other offices on campus.
f. This has been a long time coming. This originally failed, but we are bringing
it back. This is a SURGE event – it has been a SURGE event from day one.
This is an important event. In perspective of economics, there is an $8.3
billion economic impact that our nation has because of domestic violence.
g. Questions
i. Tomas Green: Could you speak a little bit more to how pivotal LMS
is in her field?
1. She is a big name in the DV world – she will bring a lot of
pull. She is a victim of DV and knows her stuff. She can
present it in an effective way.
2. Friendly to lower the amount by $97 to reflect the
budget – accepted
3. Friendly to change to pronouns to gender-neutral.
h. Passed unanimously via voice vote
B. 2016-083: A BILL TO FUND KU ENGINEERS WITHOUT BORDERS QA/QC
a. Currently we are asking funds for a QA/QC process. We focus on
community service and this will help collect rainwater in Uganda. This
ensures that everything is safe and sustainable.
b. Passed Unanimously via voice vote
C. 2016-301: A RESOLUTION OPPOSING HOUSE BILL 3403, THE SAFE CAMPUS
ACT
a. This was introduced in the US House of Representatives with the idea that
it would make campus more safe. It requires victims of sexual assault to
report to police before reporting to campus. If they don’t they can’t make
any further actions on campus.
b. This would set us back ten steps by taking away victims rights and giving
them the opportunity to choose where to report their instances of sexual
assault. This should be addressed by making sure that victims rights are kept
firsthand.
c. National IFC and NPC originally supported this bill– NPC has withdrawn its
support in the past week.
d. We had the opportunity to share this with other Big 12 institutions last
week – we want to be proactive on this issue.
e. It is important that we should fraternities that this is not something that we
condone. None of the houses here at KU support this – we are hoping that
national IFC does the same. Only 2-10% of claims end up being false
accusations so it isn’t valid reason to push this any further.
f. With the newly established sexual assault prevention center. That was
brought up in October – this would delegitimize it.
i. Friendly amendment to add UA, Ramiro Sarmiento,
Camille Douglas, Sophie Wang and Mady Womack as a
sponsor
ii. Sophie Wang: Has there been talks within current Greek system of
them speaking out against it?
1. This has been talked about by IFC and Panhellenic Boards
and both are in solidarity in opposing it.
iii. Dylan Jones: If this is passed through the federal government, how
will KU move forward, especially with the center?
1. Deferred to Jane Tuttle: We would have to follow the law,
but the chances of this passing federally is low.
g. Passed
D. 2016-302: A RESOULTION TO POSITIVELY ADDRESS THE LIST OF DEMAND
PRESENTED BY ROCK CHALK INVISIBLE HAWK AT THE KU TOWN HALL
MEETING ON NOVEMBER 11,2015
a. Presented by Madeline Dickerson, Chair of Student Rights Committee
i. Couple questions, food for thought: Why did you become a
senator? What are our motives? How are we going to utilize our
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
positions to help those who are oppressed? Why do we put
barriers to mute different voices?
ii. I fight for the little guy. It takes a lot of work and energy to do what
is right. That might be why it is hard for a lot, because it is
uncomfortable, but there is growth in that discomfort. Students are
hurting, and we can amplify those voices. If you don’t want to do
that, are you doing your job?
iii. This was generated after the town hall meeting, authored by
Garrett Farlow, Tymon Wall and Alex Kinkead
Alex Kinkead
i. Felt it was appropriate for us to address this after the town hall
meeting. Students feel unheard. This is about supporting a
movement – the point isn’t looking at feasibility or nitpick, but to
amplify voices and support these students. Encourage white people
to acknowledge their privilege and allow for discomfort.
Tymon Wall
i. The heart of this bill is the 15 demands introduced by Rock Chalk
Invisible Hawk (RCIH). This is about supporting marginalized
identities.
Garrett Farlow, ROTC Committee
i. This is important for my constituency. The Rights Committee
passed this unanimously. In Alderson Auditorium, we have plaques
for all of the different bodies that senate has been. We need to
show that we support these students moving forward.
Kat Rainey
i. We aren’t the leaders of RCIH.
1. Going through this list would be exhausting, but we are
happy to answer any questions you may have.
Questions:
i. Frankie: Since this isn’t about actually enacting it, how does this
progress future discussion?
1. Madeline: It allows more discussion and creates action. Even
if you have disagreements with these points, this is about
continuing the discussion.
2. Garrett: We are here to represent all of the students, not
just some of them.
ii. Riley: How do you expect us to unite as one if we divide?
1. Ramiro: When you frame it that way, yes. We aren’t trying
to create separate – we told people we wanted this last
year and we had to cry and yell. We need a government to
look out for ourselves. Everyone was pissed during the
campaign because we weren’t listening. You won the
election, and we had conversations, and you said we would
do something about it (the three leaders) and nothing has
been done. We are pissed. It is insulting – I have been here
for four years and I’m tired.
2. What about making changes to create a more inclusive
environment?
a. Kat: We can’t do anything about it because of
coalitions. It depends on who runs. If you are
iii.
iv.
v.
vi.
wondering how to get more multicultural people in
this space, you’ve done what you can. But it isn’t
enough. Because we aren’t in the majority, we
won’t be silenced. We aren’t the cause. This is a
systemic issue that Student Senate is a product of.
By creating this multicultural student government,
we aren’t going to remove multicultural students
from government. You aren’t doing an adequate job
in supporting us. We are tired of asking you to
provide us with those things. This isn’t about
discussing and looking into things – this is about
action. This system wasn’t set up for us, it was set
up for you. With this, multicultural groups are the
focus. We don’t feel united with you in here – it
doesn’t matter whether we are in this space. We
don’t want to have to keep asking you to consider
us. We will provide that voice and make sure that
we are taken care of.
Nick Faust: Pertaining the Clause 11, do you think it is in the rights
or interests of Senate to support this considering due process?
1. We are doing code revisions in relation to violence. This is
important.
Sophia Templin: On Demand 13, the investigation of Rick Dowdell.
Considering it happened on 1970, what do you think it would mean?
1. Rick Dowdell was murdered by the KU police department
and helped form the Black Student Union. Given the climate
here and across the United States, it is important that we
are addressing racial tensions. We want it known that this is
imperative
Sarah Elliott: Do you think having this at 10:20 p.m. limits certain
voices?
1. Yes, I was approached by Zach George to give them time.
We weren’t prioritized by being last on the agenda.
Michaella Schick: In terms of 14), could you talk about what power
the multicultural government would have?
1. Kat: This would vaguely model Mizzou’s LBC – this would
provide resources with funding. Would have a multicultural
resource fair. We wouldn’t have to come to Student Senate
to support our demands – we would have our own body to
do that. We would have representation in all the various
committees – we would want to have the ability to speak at
meetings with administration.
2. Terri: The hope is that in the future we could unite again.
3. Kierstin: As people ask more questions, I can’t help but get
emotional because I have done what I can do be a leader on
this campus. I’ve held a lot of jobs on this campus. The
reason why this is important is because people like me are
being shut out. I know several white people that consider
themselves allies to be that have never invited me into this
space. There are people like us who don’t have a voice and
who are silenced by their peers. It is very important to not
keep continuing to shut students out. Students who would
have the capability to be great student senators.
4. Kynnedi: If you call yourself an ally, that isn’t a term that
you get to self-proclaim. That term is given to you, so be
mindful of that.
5. Mark: I don’t claim to be an ally, I let students of color do
that. What is important to consider is that the Multicultural
Student Government is at the same level as Student Senate.
The hope is that students feel safe to get involved in here.
vii. Nobus Oghenekaro: You said you ran as a minority – does that
show inclusion to the majority?
1. Ramiro: What has happened is that the majority hasn’t
included us at all. You can reference the turnover meeting
where folks in the minority were silenced by the majority.
We only came here because we are struggling.
2. Does being a minority show inclusion?
a. Kat: We were painted as the minority coalition
because we were inclusive. We weren’t
exclusionary. There were white people, even white
greeks on our ticket. People who shared our values
was the minority in our coalition. You can be on
surface-level diverse, but we are talking about
below the surface – providing voices and creating
systemic change.
3. With regards to Senate, would seats be elected and open to
all?
a. Kynnedi: Yes. The difference would be that more
people would feel included. Our existent depends
on execs reflection – we are tired of waiting. The
SAFE Campus Resolution meant that I shouldn’t
have to ask to breath. I shouldn’t have to wait for
Jessie to give me oxygen to breathe.
b. Jameelah: Don’t be accusatory when asking
questions. Be inquisitive. The problem with creating
a divisive senate – these questions misrepresent the
history of segregation. Do not misconstrue –
segregation is so much more than “white only”
signs at restrooms. It was a discrimination and
hierarchical system based on race. It has a effect on
many of our laws and how Senate operates.
Because we are not taught that history and that
history is optional, we don’t understand that. This is
like asking if historically colleges or if we have a
month of celebrate white history – these
misrepresent the history of segregation. Not all of
these questions have pure intent. We shouldn’t
have to just sit here and ask to be inclusive and let
the student senate say “trust us.” You need to see
how these things manifest themselves in your
everyday life. Majority people of color – we have to
prove that we are inclusive while a majority-white
senate body that they have problems with is saying
to trust our emotions. You are proving why they
want what they want. Be careful about how you
approach these people. Notice how you approach
them besides people who look like you.
c. Kat: We see you – when you shake your heads in
approval but continue to question us or vote note,
we see you. Also those who aren’t clapping.
d. Are there any other issues, other than lowering the
spending cap, related to senate?
i. Ramiro: In-kind donations could also be
allowed. Some parents may have means for
folks to provide in-kind donations.
ii. Kat: Senate code is not clear on how to
run. We had to scrape and pull in resources
in order to run…and lose. There wasn’t
enough adequate information for students
not traditionally part of this body. There
needs to be more clarity and training
provided. Additionally there is a restriction
on where you can campaign or where you
can meet, such as saying you can meet in
Greek Housing, which isn’t a safe space for
many.
iii. Ramiro: Coalitions used to be able to spend
thousands of dollars. When they were
inching back up there – it would be nice if
we could solidify the spending cap at $1000.
iv. Jameelah – have conversations outside of
this space. We shouldn’t be invisible until
we show up.
viii. Sophie: I apologize for as many as possible for the tokenization of
Stephonn Alcorn. This campus should be a safe space and Student
Senate should have been fighting for you.
ix. Kellor: I support this resolution, but I have had a couple concerns
brought to me by constituents. Will students who are involved in
the multicultural student government be able to be in regular
student senate?
Kat: Yes, and the intent isn’t expected to isolate us from the
KU community. We hope to have liaisons between the two
until the current Student Senate can learn.
1. Kat: Are there any legal issues? We will cross that bridge
when we get there. There are no legal ramifications we
have come up with yet. We have not addressed how these
two bodies would interact and do representation, and we
kind of have to be approved in form before people assume
that we are being exclusionary.
2. Kynnedi: Also shift the narrative on how the Student Senate
can accommodate us.
3. Omar: Other student governments at other schools plan
their events. You could compare this to SUA.
x. Kat Young: I’m not standing up here as a senator but as a fellow
student. I believe in your cause and I want to be an ally. I support all
15 demands. My question deals with one sentence, and that is
pertaining to sexual assault on campus. I’ve seen it happen to way
too many of them. Many actual guilty people have been found guilty
on campus, why is it to specifically Dr. Paul Stevens, who has been
found innocent by the court of law?
1. Constituent: Dr. Paul Steven’s family contributes a
considerable amount of money to KU. I believe survivors.
Do you believe survivors? Mara has PTSD and has been
pushed out of Lawrence and has been retaliated against for
speaking out against her abuser.
2. Kat Young: I definitely believe in the people. This is a
serious issue and it pains me to be in this position. I believe
in her.
3. Kat Rainey: I would encourage you to have this
conversation later – this is triggering.
4. Madeline: We are looking to make code revisions.
5. Kat Young: I’m wanting to know where in the process this
happened.
6. Constituent: If you nitpick, you are undermining the
demands. You didn’t care or was intentional. You continue
to ostracize me. You are triggering. You are impacting; I
don’t care what your intentions are. If you all ever expect
us to support you, that won’t happen. This is disappointing.
Why did it take impeachment for actions to be taken? This
is reactionary. I’m upset that your care and concern is
reactionary.
7. Kynnedi: We elected these officials into these positions and
we gave them time to reflect. These aren’t just a couple of
brown people mad they lost.
8. Alex: Let them decide when they finish talking, not motion
to call the question.
9. Lauren: You want the resignation, correct? We need to
keep this away from the impeachment process.
10. Madeline: I’m exhausted. You need to know to not be
defensive and vote in favor of students. This isn’t a reaction
to wanting to impeach – it diminishes them. We aren’t
saying people aren’t mean or racist, but prove that tonight.
g. Resolution passes 65-13-2
E. A BILL TO AMEND STUDENT SENATE RULES AND REGULATIONSARTICLE VI
SECTION 7.9.1A TO REDUCE THE GENERAL ELECTIONS SPENDING CAP
a. Tyler: We want to lower the spending cap to $1000. We wanted it to be
vetoed, it wasn’t. We are here to rectify that.
b. Passes, 73-3-3
F. GENERATED LEGISLATION: During all student senate meetings, a transcript of
the meeting minutes must be maintained to ensure the accuracy of said meetings.
a. Alex: Is there anything about recordings?
i. Amendment to make all Senate meetings transcribed and recorded.
b. Adam: Notes have to be submitted to Communications Director and
submitted online. Would all of these minutes have to be communicated to
me (Isaac) and put on website?
i. Yes
c. Quinn: Can we include language to define what a meeting is?
i. Daisy: It is intended to be vague because any meeting held that is
official should be transcribed.
ii. I’m worried that as it is worded right now, and two people who are
talking about Senate would have to have it transcribed.
iii. Daisy: Would using the word “official” use.
iv. Garrett: we can specify that we want standing boards and executive
staff meetings.
d. Danica: In the interest of transparency and there aren’t “huff” meetings. Can
we define what a meeting is? Worried that there will be an official and
unofficial meting.
e. Erin: Would you welcome the idea of having it say scheduled meetings?
i. My worry is that they may create “unscheduled” meetings.
f. Negative Speech: Frankie Hernandez (in realization to decrease of spending
cap)
i. I am grossly disgusted by this body that I stood up here opposing
legislation ($2000 spending cap) that it took this and people flipflopped their opinion so quickly without discussion. It makes me
question whether I want to be a part of this body.
g. Positive Speech: Sophie Wang: We need the trust of the student body and
this is the start.
i. Harrison Baker: Would it be possible to table this and consult Legal
Services and General Counsel considering issues of legality that may
occur.
1. Garrett: I think it is important for us to move forward and
do the right thing.
ii. Elizabeth Johnson: For holding the executive staff accountable, do
you think it would be good to hold all student senators
accountable?
1. Sophie: The executive staff has higher levels of power. We
are already upheld to a certain level. I think for that
requirement, I would be fine with it, but what is more
pressing is executive staff.
2. Daisy: If you want to cheat the rules and lack integrity, no.
iii. Connor: I think a good way to do this, set a certain number and say
after that number a meeting needs to be recorded.
h. Negative Speech: Chance Maginness: I have a multitude of issues with this
bill, and I feel like this is relevant. Sometimes, meetings need to be
confidential. For example, confidential things happen, such as having to take
family leave. That is unfair to that person. This is so vague that it is almost
moot. Sometimes senators have the meetings between 3-4 of them, do I
have to take minutes of every conversation I have with senators? This isn’t
how the process works – confidentiality works in certain issues. In terms of
consequences, it’ll probably happen where there will be separate meetings.
If you are always recorded, it is necessary because sometimes people
address concerns that they don’t want made publicly. We are all tired and
exhausted, this needs to be sent to committees to be vetted. I motion that
this is sent through the University Affairs and Rights Committee.
i. Hand vote – with 56 in favor, the amendment has been moved to University
Affairs and Student Rights
VIII. Announcements
 Omar Rana: Several multicultural organizations are hosting a canned food drive.
You can visit their cubicles and donate food. You can donate until November
20th. ISA is hosting a Thanksgiving Party on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. Go and show
that you support them. Lastly, Mosaics is hosting a discussion about everything
that is going on. It will be tomorrow at 6:00 p.m. in the OMA lobby.
 Sarah Elliott: Tomorrow my church is having a talk called “Truths of a Trans
Christian.” It is at 7 in Nunnemaker.
 KU Alternative Breaks is hosting applications for Spring Break.
IX. Adjournment
 12:05 p.m.
Note: Minutes were taken by Communications Director Isaac Bahney for all parts
except the officer reports for Shegufta Huma, Tomas Green and Stephonn Alcorn.