Mx. Adam Khan, Candidate for QM/BL Trans Representative
Role Description: Are you interested in working to achieve improvements for students who identify as part of the transgender community? The Trans Representative gathers feedback from and represents the interests of Transgender students on the issues they face.
You'll be supporting the Vice President Communities, coordinating, and convening with the other LGBT+ Representatives (Mile End) & (BLSA), for LGBT History month and other appropriate campaigns. You’ll be liaising with members of the relevant clubs, societies and student groups and encouraging more Trans students to participate and engage with the Students’ Union. This is a cross-campus position.
What's your favourite moment from being a student here?
I love the number of opportunities which come with being part of the University. I’m only 6 months into my course yet I’ve created so many Disability and LGBT+ History Month events and am on numerous society committees. I’ve also been able to get involved in local and national organising across London, which as already seen me deliver workshops across the country, do more spoken word, and help create systemic change!
What's something you've done that you're proud of?
It’s hard to choose one thing! Due to my adverse upbringing, just getting to university was a feat, let alone starting a master’s degree! Despite all of the awards I’ve won and countries I’ve made a difference in, I am proud of the organisations which I found having a legacy. These include Trans Pride Birmingham, which is entering its third year of events, and the Luxembourg LGBT+ Students’ Association, which in the last year has won some prestigious awards!
What is a problem facing students and how do you propose to fix it?
For trans students, the Students’ Union needs an overhaul. Staff are stretched, students have so much else going on, and there is barely any real support, campaigns, or activism. Due to current policies, the SU hasn’t had a trans rep since November 2023, therefore no voice solely for trans students. As a seasoned trans activist and organiser, I have developed a vast national network as well as skills to ‘stir the pot’. I’ve been working on creating links with other London Universities and societies at both QM and BL to create the connections needed to lobby the University and SU. I will be holding a referendum for NUS membership (QMSU is not affiliated, and it needs help and connections). I will work with the university and SU to create trans-positive policies which include streamlined processes for name changes and trans healthcare. I will also ensure that all campuses are adequately represented, as per my remit. Most importantly, if necessary direct action will also be taken to ensure that trans voices are not erased.
