University of Louisville’s Student Government Association

Sentate Meeting – November 7 2024

On November 7^th, the most recent Student Government Senate meeting, significant developments were discussed. Griffin Gould provided a presentation delineating the differences between Resolutions and actions within the legislative framework of the Senate. Resolutions, he explained, serve as formal expressions of opinion or intent, enabling the Senate to articulate its position on key matters. By contrast, actions involve direct measures aimed at implementing tangible outcomes or policy changes. This clarification underscored the procedural nuances essential to the effective operation of the Senate and its ability to address diverse student concerns. While Gould’s presentation was informative, its necessity at this point in the semester raises questions about procedural preparedness among the senators. Ideally, an understanding of these foundational distinctions should have been established early in their tenure to ensure the efficient functioning of the Senate. While the effort to educate and clarify is commendable, the timing may suggest a need for enhanced training or orientation for senators at the start of their terms. Addressing this gap could strengthen the Senate’s ability to address student concerns promptly and effectively.

The Senate also discussed an initiative introduced by the university’s parking department, which allows students to receive discounts on parking tickets in exchange for donations to the Cardinal Cupboard, the campus food pantry. This initiative represents a creative approach to merging institutional policy with community support. By incentivizing contributions to a vital resource for food-insecure students, the initiative promotes a sense of shared responsibility and fosters a culture of mutual aid within the university community. Additionally, a reminder was issued to all Senators to submit their reports by the next meeting, reinforcing the importance of accountability and timely communication. This procedural directive ensures that the Senate remains a transparent and efficient body capable of representing student interests comprehensively.

Three Resolutions were brought forward during the meeting, each addressing critical issues with the potential to enhance student experiences on campus. The first, Resolution 14.7, authored by Senator Lily Gordon, focuses on the need to fix bathroom locks and add urinal dividers in Davidson Hall. This Resolution emerged from student concerns regarding privacy and safety, particularly the discomfort caused by broken locks and the absence of dividers in the men’s restrooms. The resolution contextualizes these issues within the framework of the SGA Constitution and Bylaws, emphasizing the Senate’s obligation to address campus service matters. By advancing this resolution to committee, the Senate demonstrated its dedication to creating an environment that prioritizes the fundamental needs of students.

The second, Resolution 14.8, addresses the status and support of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives at the University of Louisville. Authored by Kyle W. Cook and Alexandria Underwood, the resolution responds to state-level legislative pressures that threaten DEI measures in higher education. It commends the university’s leadership, particularly President Kim Schatzel, for maintaining support for DEI efforts in the face of such challenges. However, the resolution also critiques the term “All Means All,” arguing that it inadequately addresses systemic inequities and risks minimizing the lived experiences of minority groups. By advocating for a more direct acknowledgment of barriers and continued commitment to DEI principles, the resolution highlights the Senate’s role in safeguarding inclusivity and equity within the university community. This resolution was likewise referred to committee for further deliberation.

The third and final resolution, Resolution 14.9, celebrates the twenty-fifth anniversary of the PEACC (Prevention, Education, and Advocacy on Campus and in the Community) Center. Established in 1999, the PEACC Center has played a pivotal role in addressing power-based personal violence and fostering a campus culture that values prevention and advocacy. The resolution recognizes the Center’s contributions to improving attitudes toward sexual assault, harassment, and discrimination, as well as its impact on enhancing student well-being. By formally acknowledging the PEACC Center’s anniversary and its ongoing significance, the Senate reaffirmed its commitment to promoting safety and equity on campus. This resolution, having undergone its second reading, was passed during the meeting.