University can be a time filled with major life changes. Whether from home or away, for many students the prospect of moving to an unfamiliar place may be daunting – especially if you belong to a minority group.
 

When researching higher education, I had doubts about being accepted due to experiencing prejudice first-hand at college. Finding a campus that celebrated diversity was crucial and so when arrived at Middlesex University, I was taken aback by how friendly the atmosphere was.
 

At the end of my first year, life provided another pleasant surprise – during an LGBT-themed political art project (run by Kerri Jefferis and Suzanne van Rossenberg) I met my first friend from Middlesex Students’ Union. From there I was introduced to even more amazing individuals, motivational ideas and campus-changing campaigns – it wasn’t long before I found that the safe space I was looking for lay in the form of MDXSU’s four Liberation Groups.

The aim of Liberation assemblies is to allow those who self-define as disabled; LGBT+ [Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans+, Queer, Intersexual, Asexual, Non-Binary, Poly]; female; or BAME [Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic] – to socialise and strengthen their community. Each lead by a committee of dedicated students, there have been superb past activities from panel talks, to pub crawls, to body-confidence-building sessions. But the fun doesn’t stop there – even if you don’t identify with a specific group, events are still open to everyone.

After volunteering as LGBT+ Vice President in my second year, I decided to use my influences to create an all-inclusive experience to bring the four groups together – it was named The Liberation Station. Held in the Grove Atrium, TLS was an interactive exhibition incorporating workshops, photographic work and a London Underground aesthetic. 
 

This year, MDXSU are bringing the project back – this time as a one-off, one-day event in the Quad. Featuring acoustic live music; anti-harassment maps; a chillout zone; and a showcase of Liberation Groups and cultural Societies, The Liberation Station 2.0 shall be arriving on-campus on MONDAY 16 APRIL from 11AM – 5PM.

I truly believe that MDX is a place for all types of people, and would encourage everyone to get involved.

All aboard The Liberation Station! I hope to see you there …

Amy 'Maier' Perrin
MDXSU Liberation Intern 
MDXSU School Voice Leader: Art & Design 

You can contact Maier about the project via Facebook @ www.facebook.com/mdxsu.schvl.ad. 

Thinking of attending? See if your mates are coming along too @ www.facebook.com/events/1925632951080703