Under the leadership of Social Justice Affairs Chair Kaylyn Walker, 16 members of the Missouri Students Association’s Social Justice Affairs Committee gathered in the Student Center at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 3, where they began planning a cultural showcase as well as discussed upcoming events for committee members.

The cultural showcase is scheduled for March 4, 2024 at 6 p.m., and hopes to showcase all of the boards on campus that diverse individuals can access according to Walker. 

While several venues and times were discussed, the committee decided on Conservation Auditorium, in the Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, due to its size and the ability to use both the stage and hallways for performances.

After some deliberation, the committee settled for March 4 in order to avoid  conflicts with Greek Week and the start of Ramadan. 

Aside from Walker, other notable attendees to the committee were MSA President Miyah Jones and Legion of Black Collegians Executive Secretary Jasmine Greene, who both provided insights about event planning.

Other than the scheduling of the showcase, Walker encouraged committee members to participate in Homecoming events, including upcoming blood drive, walking with MSA in the Homecoming Parade or participating in Decorate the District, an event where student organizations are paired with local businesses to create window paintings or other decorations downtown.

Other agenda items included an announcement that the position of Academic Senator is open and applications close Oct. 11. Also announced were upcoming guest speakers Dr. Erika Aaron and Dr. NaTashua Davis, who are assistant vice chancellor for the Inclusive Engagement and associate vice chancellor of MU’s department of Inclusion, Diversity and Equity.

Walker also requested that going forward, the committee use “Parli Pro,” or Parliamentary Procedure, which is a method of speaking and organization for local government institutions.  

“I wanted to get a little bit more formal with the committee,” Walker said. “So as far as whenever we’re voting, we are going to enter voting procedure.Whenever we adjourn, I’m going to say I’m ‘looking for a motion’ and someone will say ‘motion to adjourn,’ kind of like how full senate works.”

The Social Justice Affairs Committee will meet again on Tuesday, Oct. 17 in the Student Center.  

Edited by Sam Barrett | sbarrett@themaneater.com 

Copy Edited by Jae Green and Sterling Sewell | ssewell@themaneater.com