Each year in February, students put themselves forward to run for a full-time, paid position as a Student Leader. They campaign for votes and every Essex student will have an equal chance to 'vote like a student' and choose who they want to be elected into each of the 6 roles. This is the SU Leadership Election.

Manifesto

Candidate for the position of Trans Officer

Image for SAM TEMPLE

SAM TEMPLE

PROVIDING REPRESENTATION. PROVIDING RESOURCES. PROVIDING REALLY GOOD VIBES.

Hey, I'm Sam, and I use he/they pronouns. I'm running for the Trans Student Community Officer role. I'm a first year studying both Literature and Sociology, because apparently I just love essay writing that much...

I am passionate about helping people, whether that's advocating for their needs or just being someone people can go to when they're feeling low. Having the power to make a difference to people's lives, even in a small way, would mean a great deal to me. I would like to think that I am approachable, and would love to be a friendly face on campus who people can talk to about any issues they may have. With this role, I would then be able to make a difference by taking your comments to Student Parliament. As a diplomatic and level-headed person, I would be honoured to represent you all in this regard.

So, what kind of changes do I want to make? This academic year has already seen some great changes, and I would love to continue that. I want this uni to be not only safe but comfortable for trans people, and I wish to ensure that students and staff are educated on trans issues so that the teaching doesn’t have to be left to trans students. We should not have to explain or justify our existence to anyone, so I would love to take that burden from you all.

In addition to this, I would like to have an accessible binder box which people can access discreetly, as well as working to continue events such as clothes swaps to give trans students resources as well as socials. I have close links with the society, and so would be able to continue to build those connections within the community. After having conversations with members of the community, I am aware of how exclusionary sports and gym spaces can be for queer, and especially trans, people. I would like to work to change that. I would also like to consult members of the community who represent different trans identities, as well as those who are a part of different minority groups. This includes improved accessibility for trans disabled students, and increased representation for trans students of colour

Overall, my goal is about providing representation, providing resources, and providing really good vibes.

I appreciate you taking the time to read this, and I hope you consider me for your new Trans Officer,
Sam