SOCA

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Need to Know, Need to Go: SOCA’s Black History Month events

Vee Babbar and Petra Chase February 10, 2023

Students of Caribbean and African Ancestry (SOCA), a student-run group representing SFU’s Black community, has packed the month with events for Black History Month. The Peak interviewed events coordinator Mugasha Rutega to get an inside scoop about what’s in store.  Rutega said Black History Month is “a celebration of Black culture” and “it’s a time for Black people to express their culture and educate people on their culture.” Rutega stressed the importance of listening and trying to learn.  Here’s SOCA’s itinerary, all taking place in the Student Union Building on Burnaby campus. While the events are geared towards SOCA community…

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SFU faces criticism over new varsity team name

Simran Sarai October 6, 2022

On September 6, over two years after SFU announced they were dropping “The Clan” due to its racist connotation with the “Ku Klux Klan,” SFU Athletics has chosen a new name. Moving forward, athletes will be known as the “Red…

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The outside of the Simon Fraser Student Society Executive Committee meeting room.
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A timeline of SFSS conduct and concerns

Meera Eragoda August 6, 2022

May 2022  President Helen Sofia Pahou and the new Simon Fraser Student Society (SFSS) begin their 2022/23 term.  May 11, 2022  In an interview with The Peak, Pahou said she hopes to facilitate clear communication within the SFSS.  May 11,…

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The photo shows 13 graduates wearing the Kente cloth stoles. They are huddled together smiling at the camera.
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SOCA and SFU Black caucus host inaugural Black Graduation Celebration

Chloë Arneson August 3, 2022

On June 6, the SFU Black Caucus hosted the SFU Black graduation celebration at the Student Union Building. The celebration was supported by SFU Students of Caribbean and African Ancestry (SOCA) and endorsed by SFU African Students Association (ASA) and…

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Picture of Dr. Yabome Gilpin-Jackson
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Dr. Yabome Gilpin-Jackson announced as new vice-president, people, equity, and inclusion

Karissa Ketter January 17, 2022

On January 5, 2022, SFU announced the hiring of Dr. Yabome Gilpin-Jackson as the first vice-president, people, equity, and inclusion (VPPEI). Gilpin-Jackson is currently an adjunct faculty member for the Beedie School of Business and has previously worked as the…

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Staircase leading to West Mall Centre with Rotundra visible
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SFU signs onto the Scarborough Charter

Karissa Ketter January 11, 2022

On November 21, 2021, SFU joined over 40 post-secondary institutions in signing onto the Scarborough Charter on Anti-Black Racism and Black Inclusion in Canadian Higher Education. The University of Toronto began drafting the charter over a year ago, in consultation…

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SFU AQ outdoor staircase
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Organizers and allies respond to SFU decision to hire 15 more Black faculty

Tamanna T. November 20, 2021

SFU Senate voted on September 13, 2021 to hire at least 15 Black tenured faculty. The new hires are to be made across various faculties to promote inclusivity and diversity of perspectives.  Dr. June Francis, special advisor to the president…

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AQ with blue skies
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Senate Report: September 13, 2021

Victoria Lopatka November 19, 2021

Motion to Hire 15 Black Faculty at SFU  The Simon Fraser Student Society (SFSS) president Gabe Liosis brought forward the motion to hire more Black faculty at SFU on behalf of former SFSS president, Osob Mohamed. The motion includes the…

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Students discuss SFU’s reopening plan for fall semester

Karissa Ketter July 19, 2021

Following the provincial government’s announcement of reopening measures, SFU released a reopening plan for the Fall 2021 semester.  SFU anticipates 70–80% of courses will be taught on campus. Reopening protocols include enhanced cleaning practices and reimplementing student amenities and programs. …

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President of Students of Caribbean & African Ancestry removed due to negligence

Jaymee Salisi April 3, 2021

On March 12, 2021 former president of SFU Students of Caribbean and African Ancestry (SOCA) Tim Maruti was removed for failure to fulfill his presidential duties throughout 2020 and 2021.  Upon removal, Maruti posted a statement on the SFU Undergrads Facebook…

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