RE: Recent defamatory allegations
Dear Editors,
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much,” – Helen Keller.
Before addressing the concerns raised about my candidacy, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the professionalism of Meghan Stanley and the ASUS elections team, as well as my two fellow candidates, Ivana and Edlira, for their dedication, hard work, and friendliness throughout this campaign. Running for student office is never easy, and I deeply respect the effort they’ve put into making this election fair and meaningful.
I entered this race with a vision of unity, believing that only by coming together can we truly make a difference in our university community. However, I recognize that elections can bring division. My hope is that, regardless of its outcome, we can move forward together, not as opponents, but as one community committed to making Arts and Science, and Queen’s as a whole, a better place for all, and not just serving the interests of a few. Unity, for me, isn’t just with students; it’s with the istration, faculty, staff, and many of those who are marginalized. Our goal must be to work together for the betterment of our university, one that’s inclusive and ive of everyone, regardless of background or position.
Regarding my involvement with Indigenous communities, as a non-Indigenous person, I’m proud to have the privilege of serving as the first-ever first-year intern for the Queen’s Native Student Association (QNSA) in 2021-22. Since high school, especially after the discovery of many tragedies, I’ve remained deeply committed to ing Indigenous initiatives, attending remembrance events, and advocating for increased inclusion and recognition. To me, allyship isn’t simply about voicing but about actively engaging in meaningful actions. I will continue to stand with these vital causes and work toward fostering a more inclusive environment for Indigenous communities at Queen’s.
As for the claims of “resume-padding,” I do not shy away from acknowledging that I’ve taken on many roles, 24 leadership positions at Queen’s alone, in addition to countless others before arriving at university. I believe there’s no shame in stepping outside my comfort zone, even if it means sacrificing social time with friends and facing pressures to balance schoolwork in the most rigid Arts and Science program, and during times of crisis.
However, the majority of these experiences have never even made it onto my resume, not because they lack value, but because there simply isn’t enough space. While I enjoy collecting books and Pokémon cards, my involvement at this university has never been about amassing titles, it has always been about service. As the former Student Vice-Chair of the University Senate, I’ve had the privilege of consulting with hundreds, if not thousands, of students, faculty, and relevant stakeholders, through both formal consultations and informal outreach, including engaging with students at over 150 booths directly at the ARC and over 400 university and local events I attended to hear their concerns. For me, engaging with the community isn’t an additional responsibility; it’s the very essence of leadership.
I understand advocating for change invites criticism, and I accept not everyone will agree with my approach. This isn’t unusual for anyone who strives for change, as we’ve seen with great leaders in history, just to name a few, Thatcher, Reagan, and de Gaulle. However, I firmly believe ASUS and Queen’s as a whole needs leaders who are willing to act, challenge the status quo, and bring new ideas to the table. In my debate this year, I it I probably won’t accomplish all promises made, but I’ll test and trial new ideas for the generations of leaders to come. I believe leadership is about more than just holding a position or title to pad one’s resume, it’s about listening, adapting, and taking responsibility for the community we serve.
Additionally, I’m deeply aware of the ongoing challenges facing our staff , including the impending strike. This is a time of uncertainty for many within our Queen’s community. I believe now, more than ever, we must all come together, not just as students, but as a university-wide community, to address these issues and find common ground. If elected, I’ll work closely with staff, faculty, and my former boss, Principal Deane, who I respect and his team to ensure our voices are heard and that we advocate for fair and equitable solutions. Only through unity, collaboration, and a commitment to action can we resolve these crises and move forward as a stronger, more unified institution.
This letter was written and submitted before the results of the election were announced. No matter the outcome, I want to extend my gratitude to those who stood with me during times of crisis, and to those who challenged me during moments of uncertainty. It’s through both and critique that we grow. Only through unity can we achieve true greatness, and I hope that, in the days to come, we can come together not just behind the keyboards, but as a community in real life that strives to build something better for everyone.
Sincerely and at your service,
Leo Yang, ArtSci ’26
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This dude again wdym great leaders thatcher reagan and de gaulle LMAOO