The Associated Students of Madison Legislative Affairs Committee hosted a debate Monday between Angelito Tenorio and Hayley Young, candidates for the Dane County Board of Supervisors District 5 position.
Young, a May 2015 UW-Madison graduate, is currently a legislative aid in Rep. Melissa Sargent's office, D-Madison, and Tenorio is a sophomore at UW-Madison.
Young and Tenorio both responded to the recent issues of hate incidents on campus. Young said she would push for UW-Madison to actively fight these matters and apply “activist, political and media pressure,” while Tenorio emphasized his intention to create forums promoting open discussion for students.
“Something tangibly I want to do is host forums here so we can continue this conversation,” Tenorio said. “Have open, frank discussions so that we can foster equity and inclusion and provide a safe space for all students.”
Both candidates also spoke on sexual assault prevention on campus. Young said it is important to promote rape prevention conversations before the incidents occur.
“The Rape Crisis Center actually currently receives no prevention grants from the Dane County Board and only receives grants that are dealing with response,” Young said. “Prevention is the most effective way to prevent assault on campus or anywhere in Dane County.”
Tenorio also highlighted the significant role the Rape Crisis Center plays in providing survivors with assistance.
“These aren’t just numbers, these are people, these are fellow Badgers on our campus, and this is something we need to change,” Tenorio said. “Through the Rape Crisis Center, this would allow for survivors to receive the proper counseling and resources that they need.”
The candidates also discussed criminal justice reform and problems of poverty and homelessness in Madison. Young advocated for more humane treatment of inmates and promoted the foundation of a potential day shelter to provide resources for people experiencing homelessness.
Tenorio examined the negative effects of racial profiling and the war on drugs, and stressed addressing the roots of poverty by increasing educational programs among the impoverished.
Legislative Affairs Committee Chair Carmen Goséy underlined the importance of hosting the debate.
“This debate is a wonderful opportunity for students on campus to hear the platforms of each candidate,” Goséy said in a press release, “which is especially important considering this position heavily represents the student body.”
