We demand decision-makers to show backbone and eradicate racism
We agree with the National Union of University Students in Finland (SYL) that Finland should be a safe place to live and study. Finland is one of the most racist countries in Europe and has taken a step backwards in eradicating racism. Racist atmosphere and the immigration policy of the government programme undermine the unequal status and difficult situation of many students.
Racism normalises society that lives off hate, fear and discrimination. The power elite’s statements belittling racism and the lack of genuine anti-racist measures further increase conversational inequality in society. Raising awareness of the thoughts and experiences of people facing racism is of paramount importance in actively eradicating racism. The responsibility for tackling racism must be shared.
Institutions have the power and opportunity to influence the direction of racism debate and act in an anti-racist way but have failed to do so. Many have been silent. The silence around the issue and the lack of concrete measures show how complex and challenging the topic is. In the debate on racism, silence is not about avoiding conflict but about accepting racism. It is a privilege not to talk about or address racism.
We no longer want to hear empty talk; we demand anti-racist action from decision-makers.
Aalto University Student Union (AYY)
Student Union of the University of Helsinki (HYY)
The Student Union of the University of Eastern Finland (ISYY)
The Student Union of the University of Jyväskylä (JYY)
The Student Union of Hanken School of Economics (SHS)
The Student Union of the University of Turku (TYY)
Student Union of Tampere University (TREY)
The Student Union of the University of Vaasa (VYY)
The Student Union of Åbo Akademi University (ÅAS)
Student Union of University of Oulu (OYY)
The Student Union of LUT University (LTKY)
University of the Arts Student Union (ArtSU)
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Ecological sustainability policy has been updated – AYY transitions to a plant-based policy
Aalto University Student Union (AYY) has updated its ecological sustainability policy, which supports AYY’s daily operations. The new document directs AYY to serve plant-based food and drinks at its events. In the future, food waste will be minimised, and 30 percent of air and ship travel costs will be offset towards environmental activities.
AYY is taking steps to improve equity in its operations – new equity plan approved by RepCo
Aalto University Student Union has an equity plan, first in AYY’s history, that was approved in the Representative Council meeting on 21.11.2024. Equity plan will guide AYY towards more accessible and inclusive ways for our students to participate in AYY’s events and operations.
Good news for residents in shared apartments: Here’s how you can receive your own housing allowance while living in a friends’ apartment!
A joint liability rental agreement may affect the housing allowance, as Kela typically grants only one housing allowance for a shared household, which is influenced by the income of both residents. However, residents in friends’ apartments may receive separate housing allowances if Kela reviews them as separate households. This requires tenants with a joint liability rental agreement to draft a mutual possession agreement for the apartment and submit it as an appendix with their housing allowance application to Kela. Tenants draft the possession agreement by themselves.