Accessibility Senator

Hello! I am Suprina, a 3rd year Illustration student, who was thrust into the disability community in late 2021 when I came down with a constant migraine. I was diagnosed with numerous chronic pain conditions that affect nearly every aspect of my life. Since I got to RIT, my interest in disability rights and activism has grown. I’ve been an events officer for the Disability Culture Club and this year the Student Government Accessibility Chair. Through these roles, I’ve honed my strong leadership skills, my dedicated work ethic and my good time management skills. I’m currently learning asl and attending the NSC forums to better understand issues surrounding the deaf community. I am always open to new perspectives and learning more about my community.

SAB

If elected, the most important thing I aim to accomplish is the establishment of a Student Advisory Board. As this role is brand new, it will need a knowledgeable individual skilled in outreach and events to create a successful board. Disability is a large spectrum, which is why a variety of voices is crucial to an educated approach on tackling accessibility issues.

Advocating through Pawprints

One of the most drastic changes from Committee Chair to Senator is that the position will no longer be directly responsible for solving accessibility issues raised in pawprints. So another critical part will be being a strong, persistent voice when collaborating with the committee chairs.

Campus Pulse Access

I also plan to continue working with Campus Pulse Access and RIT to create a map of elevators around campus with their current working status. And further improve the reporting system to include QR codes to report broken door buttons.

Accessible Events

I would hope to see the accessible event guidelines Ms. Torres brought to campus implemented and work to encourage clubs and organizations to follow the guidelines. (Currently they haven’t been implemented as they are going through the legal process.)

Accessibility in SG

I’d like to continue my work in bringing more accessibility into Student Government. I don’t want any physical or mental barriers to prevent motivated students from being a part of this organization. After being a member of SG, I now have the experience and connections to discover what needs improvement. If elected, I can ensure my changes and suggestions are implemented next year. For example, reduced signature requirements during petitioning for large roles due to mobility issues, being deaf or hard of hearing, or being on co-op.

And of course, I will continue looking into more precise issues as they arise such as the use of latex balloons during ‘fests which affect those with latex allergies, an RIT accessible parking pass for those who can’t own two passes and want to go somewhere in another’s car, etc. I am always looking for suggestions to work on so I’d love input as well! I acknowledge I can always learn more about accessibility and disability and will strive to be the best advocate I can be. I'd be honored to work to make our campus more accessible!