Committee Description

The Color of Drinking Survey seeks to analyze the impacts of UW-Madison’s drinking culture on undergraduate students of color. In previous versions of the survey they have found that student of color reportedly abstain from drinking more than white students; students of color and white students both actively avoid fraternity and sorority housing and Langdon Street; African American/Black students consider leaving the university three time more than white students; and so much more. 

In previous administrations, the survey and its findings have been disregarded. As we enter the distribution of Color of Drinking III, with the presence of a new Chancellor, there is a need for grassroots organizers to push forward direct action items that will address the findings of the survey to ensure that all students are able to enjoy the Wisconsin Experience. 

The primary purpose of the Color of Drinking Survey Task Force is to initiate direct action items in response to the findings of the Color of Drinking Survey administered by University Health Services. This committee will analyze data with the assistance of the UHS leadership and violence prevention teams as a means to address the high-risk drinking climate at UW-Madison to propose alternatives that prioritize the safety of students with emphasis on the disproportionate effects of alcohol on students of color.  

Chair: Internally Elected (Except for the 2022-23 Academic Year) 

Students:

• (7) Appointed by the ASM Shared Governance Committee

• (1) A representative from the Pan-Hellenic Council or Inter-Fraternity Council or affiliated organization

• (1) A representative from the Multicultural Greek Council

• (1) The ASM Anti-Violence Coordinator 

Responsibilities of members: 

To be decided upon with majority consent by the second meeting of the academic school year. Subject to change.

Student Expectations 

• Regularly attend meetings, dates to be set by the committee within the first meeting of the academic year;

• Have a proficient skill set in data analysis, as means to utilize the Color of Drinking Survey as the reasoning behind seeking change across campus;

• Have an understanding of the disproportionate effects of alcohol on students of color; 

• Advocate for the interests and needs of the student body, with emphasis on students of color;

• Dedicate a liaison with the Chancellor’s Advisory Group on Alcohol and Drugs;

• Contribute current student related events and concerns to the agenda;

• Report back regularly to the ASM Shared Governance Chair and Anti-Violence Coordinator with meeting updates, areas of concern, and other information relevant to the work of the task force. 

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