FIND, Inc. Rebukes Abuse of Power in Student Leadership

July 8th, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact: 
Julia Lopez & Esmé Bonnin-Farrales
National Chairpersons
lopez@findinc.org
bonnin-farrales@findinc.org

FIND, Inc. Rebukes Abuse of Power in Student Leadership

Athens, GA & New York City, NY (July 8th, 2020)  --  Recently, accounts have been uncovered in relation to irresponsible use of authority by both leaders and general members alike in our community of student organizations. This includes but is not limited to: dismissive behavior in important discussions of decisions, greediness of authority and jurisdiction, and misuse of seniority and leadership status towards peers. 

FIND, Inc. strongly rebukes this abuse of power and encourages leaders to take actions of accountability. As student leaders it is important to stay informed and knowledgeable in ways to sustain a safe, comfortable environment for our members- to provide them with the support they may need. It is important that these conversations be held as well as understanding how the exploitation of power dynamics in the organizational climate leaves room for someone to take advantage of their leadership status. FIND, Inc. will work with district leaders to ensure that we are all creating a safe environment for our leaders and members. 

This misuse of power within the organizational climate has also lead to sexual harassment and abuse.  First, we would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the survivors. It is extremely brave to speak up about these traumatic experiences. We thank you for your courage. We hope you continue to find peace and closure to heal from the trauma that has been inflicted.

These kinds of behaviors will not be tolerated in our FIND, Inc. community nor within our districts.  We will ensure that individuals with a known history of these behaviors, whether they be past or present, will not hold leadership roles in our communities and will no longer be able to partake in any FIND, Inc. affiliated activities; this includes district events as well.  

Lastly, with the 2019-2020 term coming to a close, we want to make it clear that we will not only be vigilant about these matters in the future, but will also ensure that the next National Executive Board of FIND, Inc. creates ways for our organization to be a supportive and educated environment to all our members. We have begun this process by suggesting online workshops and round table discussions regarding this topic, and all relative subjects, before the next school year begins with the help of professionals in the field of health and wellness. 

Our National Directors and National Executive Board Members strive to be individuals you can turn to regarding  any concerns about our community. Our emails are always open, which can be found on our FIND, Inc. website.

Below are several resources for Sexual Assault survivors and loved ones: 

For any questions, please email lopez@findinc.org & bonnin-farrales@findinc.org

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About FIND, Inc.Founded on April 11, 1992, the Filipino Intercollegiate Networking Dialogue, Incorporated (FIND, Inc.) stands as a symbol to the Filipino and ethnic consciousness presently seen on collegiate campuses. Currently, its network actively links over 82 East Coast colleges, universities, vocational, and technical schools.

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