Candidates Engage in First BDS and Citizenship Hustings at Trinity

On February 20, 2024, the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) and Citizenship Hustings took place at the Uí Chadhain lecture theatre in the arts block of Trinity College Dublin. The event, which began at 18:00, marked a significant moment in the university’s sabbatical elections, featuring candidates from various positions within the Trinity College Dublin Students’ Union (TCDSU).

Chaired by Harry Johnston, the Chair of BDS, and Rose Gulden Sevim Bibinoglu, the Citizenship Officer of TCDSU, the hustings saw all candidates present except for Promise Okafor and Jacob Barron, who are vying for the role of Communications & Marketing Officer. Barron stated on Instagram that he was unable to attend due to work commitments, wishing his fellow candidates well.

Following an initial welcome from Johnston, the hustings commenced with questions directed at the candidates. Each candidate was posed two questions: a universal question for the group and one tailored to their individual manifestos, with a time limit of one minute per answer. Candidates had the option of responding in both English and Irish, extending their time to two minutes.

Key Discussions on Student Representation

The hustings began with the University Times (UT) Editor candidate, Harper Alderson. Johnston’s first question focused on whether UT adequately covered marginalized voices on campus. While acknowledging room for improvement, Alderson referenced the “Voices from Gaza” section in the newly launched Corcra Magazine. She expressed her commitment to maintaining editorial independence, stating that UT operates independently from the Union, a principle enshrined in the SU constitution.

In the Graduate Officer segment, candidates addressed their experiences with diverse student populations. Féith Ní Chléirigh emphasized the importance of recognizing the capabilities of young students, citing their engagement with a student from Gaza as an example of their advocacy. Discussions also touched on strategies to increase postgraduate involvement in BDS activities.

Another candidate, Ava Tuohy, proposed leading a structured campaign to enhance funding for the sanctuary scholarship program, aiming to support Palestinian students in Ireland. She expressed her willingness to organize direct actions if necessary, underscoring her commitment to the cause.

Engagement and Inclusivity in Events

The Entertainments Officer candidates focused on prioritizing causes for future charity campaigns. Finn Hallwood outlined his plans to support issues deemed important by the student body, such as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Danila Kitaev addressed the need for inclusivity in events, advocating for a diverse range of activities that cater to all students, including those with disabilities.

When queried about collaborating with venues that adhere to BDS lists, both Hallwood and Kitaev acknowledged the need for compromise, recognizing the complexities in executing a complete boycott while planning events.

In the Welfare & Equality Officer segment, candidates tackled topics such as improving physical accessibility on campus and addressing food security. Rossa Bolger highlighted the necessity of adding more lifts to campus buildings, while Lorenzo Cheasty introduced the idea of establishing a social supermarket to combat food insecurity.

The presidential candidates concluded the hustings by addressing voter turnout and representation issues. Jonathan Hoffman called for a restructuring of TCDSU regulations, while Cathal Horgan criticized the Union for not adequately addressing student needs. Amy Kennedy attributed student disengagement to unfulfilled campaign promises, while Grace McNally emphasized the need for increased awareness of Union activities.

The hustings wrapped up at 18:56, with Bibinoglu reminding attendees of the upcoming National March for Palestine scheduled for Saturday. The next hustings, focused on different roles, is set for February 24, 2024, at 17:00 at the Pav.