WELCOME FROM Hamayal (she/her) CO-PRESIDENT Equality and Liberation
Manifesto
In the quest for equality and liberation, the path is often obstructed by the very institutions that should pave it. My name is Hamayal, a third-year law student at SOAS, and I stand before you as a testament to the power of discourse, diversity, and determination.
My Vision: From Discourse to Change
Growing up, I witnessed the pervasive discrimination that plagues our world. It is easy to cast stones from afar, but the true challenge lies in reforming these injustices from within. As a dedicated member of the SOAS UN-Society, a representative at the prestigious London-International MUN, and a passionate advocate in various student-led campaigns, I have not only spoken out against inequities but have actively worked towards dismantling them.
Action Plan for an Equitable SOAS
End Bias, Foster Accountability: I advocate for an unbiased, transparent Students’ Union (SU), free from management influence, ensuring accountability and open scrutiny.
Securitisation and Safety: I oppose excessive campus policing, advocating for a safe, no-policing zone and comprehensive training for (SOAS) security staff, including female personnel, for student comfort.
Monthly Liberation Surgeries: I will establish monthly forums for inclusive dialogue, allowing students to discuss all concerns with the SU, and maintain an open, accessible work calendar for all SOAS students.
Disability Advocacy: The absence of a dedicated disabled students’ officer is a glaring oversight. I commit to reinstating this role to address the unique challenges faced by our disabled community.
Flexibility in Academia: Implementing an add-drop week enables students to freely explore courses. Extending the degree change deadline ensures fair decision-making.
Commitment to Diverse Representation
My experiences as UN Society co-president, outreach ambassador, welfare officer, and learning facilitator underline the significance of each student's narrative. My work as a feminist law department intern reinforces my commitment to combat misogyny and authoritarianism, advocating for a safe, respected SOAS community.
Empowering Every Voice
As Co-President, I pledge to:
Promote Gender Equality: Establishing a larger women's prayer room. I aim to combat rising misogyny on campus by expanding workshops.
Champion Inclusivity: Ensuring BAME, religious, LGBTQ+, and all marginalised communities are heard.
Advocate for Safety: Strengthening the SU's role in combating sexual and gender-based violence, informed by my involvement in the "Enough is Enough" campaign.
Enhance Student Support: As a UniBuddy ambassador and Collaborative student learning (CSL) facilitator at SOAS, I am dedicated to addressing academic and personal concerns.
In Solidarity with Global Struggles
I aim to raise political awareness within the SU, particularly about student grievances over human rights violations against Palestinians. I strive to make the SU a representative body that actively supports student-led justice initiatives.
Contact
hz15@soas.ac.uk