Maleek Williams is a senior at The City College of New York (CCNY), majoring in psychology with a minor in Black Studies. As a Peer Leader, he supports over 50 students, connecting them to resources and holding space for conversations that go beyond academics.
Lately, Maleek has felt a shift in the weight of his role.
“There’s a great sense of urgency right now,” he says. “With DEI initiatives being rolled back, and immigrant and LGBTQ+ students under attack, it’s more important than ever that we prioritize education, critical thinking, and care.”
That urgency is something Maleek feels daily, with increased ICE presence in Harlem around his campus and students unsure what it all means for them or their peers. “That changes how I move through the world. Some of my students may be undocumented or from immigrant households. Even if they don’t always respond, I want them to know I’m here.”
Maleek says the political climate has changed how he approaches his work. “I’ve always cared about people, but now I engage with more consistency, compassion, and awareness. It’s not just about answering questions or sending reminders, it’s about being a steady presence for students who may not feel safe or seen anywhere else.”
In a sociology class on immigration and youth in NYC, Maleek is learning how systems like ICE and ACS fail to protect young people. “It’s heavy. But it makes my work as a Peer Leader feel even more important. I’m not just learning. I’m witnessing it, and I’m part of helping students navigate it.”
He sees the emotional toll these changes are taking. “There’s a collective unease right now. We don’t know if education will stay accessible or if LGBTQ+ rights will be protected. A lot of young people are coping through escapism and through my role, I just want them to know they’re not alone.”
In the future, Maleek wants to become a counselor for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ youth because as he says, “Mental health support shouldn’t be a luxury—it’s essential.”