USG to bolster diversity initiatives, two senators in question stay

The Undergraduate Student Government met this week to address the grievances filed by the Black United Students following its previous public meeting Nov. 12.

The grievances included having a more diverse USG to represent the student population, and the request that Lauren Buchanan, director of residence halls, and Joshua Lewis, senator-at-large, resign from the organization on grounds that they are not fit to represent diverse students.

“We all agree that actions need to be taken,” said Tia Loop, communications director for USG.

Loop said USG has found some positive solutions to the grievances filed by BUS, which include changing the diversity training USG members receive at the beginning of the semester.

“We’re looking into what training is going to be most beneficial for us,” Loop said. 

USG is also planning to have a more active diversity committee, currently lead by Lewis, which will aim to help meet the needs of minority students.

USG also addressed BUS’s requested for Buchanan and Lewis to resign.

“By our bylaws, the only people who can make the decision (to resign) is those two members,” Loop said.

USG will hold its next public forum Dec. 3 at 5:30 p.m. in the Governance Chambers to discuss these matters further.

Contact Hannah Armenta at [email protected].