Blue Devils United would like to formally endorse Pete Schork for Duke Student Government president. Although all three candidates embodied a certain passion for the Duke community, we felt that Schork’s previous experience with DSG as executive vice president and his specific initiatives relating to the LGBTQ community best suited our interests. Additionally, we felt that Schork’s initiatives seemed the most specific and would have the best chance of being implemented next year.
During our meeting, Schork emphasized one of our greatest concerns, the relocation of the Duke Center for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Life. Considering his experience with DSG, we trust that he will fulfill his promise of including student input during the West Union renovation process so that our community is ensured a safe and reliable space.
We were glad to hear that Schork plans on establishing an LGBTQ cabinet liaison to deal with related issues on Duke’s campus. We were also impressed with Schork’s support for a gender-neutral housing plan on West and East campuses that would go beyond the current pilot program on Central Campus.
Isaac Mizrahi had a passionate and deep understanding of LGBTQ issues, and we are confident that if elected president, he would be a great advocate for our community. We felt, however, that Mizrahi’s lack of executive experience on DSG would hinder his ability to work with the Duke administration on certain campus issues.
With a solid understanding of the position, we believe Schork can be a great voice for students and an effective liaison between students and administrators if he is elected president.
Ari Bar-Mashiah
Trinity ’12
President, Blue Devils United
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