In Conversation with YUSU’s Outgoing BAME Officer

What are your main responsibilities as BAME Officer?

The BAME officer works with the BAME Network committee to represent the interests and advocate for the support of all Black, Asian, minority-ethnicity students at the University. They also plan social events, as well as panels/discussions around issues faced by BAME students. As BAME officer I have a responsibility to promote BAME issues to YUSU and the University, and when necessary, speak out against events or inequalities which affect this group, such as the staff racial pay gap and the student awarding gap. I chair the BAME network committee and sit on several panels including the Race Equality Coordination Group and the Decolonising the Curriculum working group. I manage the BAME Network’s social media and email account.

What made you want to apply for the role?

I was really inspired by Fiks and Simi, who were BAME officers in 2020/2021. They put on so many great events during lockdown and they were obviously really passionate about the Network. They made an Instagram post called ‘being Black in York’ which I really appreciated as I could relate to a lot of the problems it discussed, such as microaggressions in first year flats, which I, like most BAME students at York, have dealt with. I wanted to continue their great work and try and build community spirit amongst BAME students, which I hope I have done. I also really wanted to forefront anti-racism on campus; I knew the BAME Network would be a good avenue to do this.

What’s the most challenging part of your position?

Event running and planning. We are currently planning the BAME creative showcase, and it is a lot of work! This year the PTOs have been super creative in the types of events they’ve done, such as Raising and Giving x Environment and Ethics Network’s sustainable fashion show, which was amazing. Next week the Women and Non-Binary Network is launching their new zine, GLOW, with a star-studded launch event that I can’t wait for. I feel like I’ve learned a lot about how to organise big events, and certainly have a deep appreciation for all events officers out there!

How many hours a week do you have to set aside for the role?

YUSU guidance states up to four hours a week, but any PTO will tell you that it is at least double this, if not triple. Alongside answering emails, running BAME Network events and making social media content, I also attend meetings with university staff who are seeking insight into what the BAME students of York want to see, and what barriers they face. For example, this week I had meetings with a staff member from the Access and Outreach department, and another with the Student Support Hub, as well as attending a RECG (race equality coordination group) meeting. It would be great to see Part Time Officers be paid or in some way compensated for their time in the future as they are in other universities, as it is certainly a large commitment that at times can compete with your actual uni work in terms of pressure and workload.

What’s your advice for the next BAME officer?

Elect a Network committee who can help with things like event running and social media and offer general support! Try not to put the Network in front of your studies, importance wise. And remember that even if they don’t say it, lots of students will really be benefitting from the Network and the events/content you produce!