Diversity: Get involved

Welcome to IU, freshmen and other new students, and welcome back, faculty and returning students. I have the responsibility and privilege of working in the Office of Diversity Education on issues of diversity for IU-Bloomington. This is a responsibility I share with many colleagues in the Commission on Multicultural Understanding, in our wonderful culture centers, in the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Student Support Services office, in Residential Programs and Services, and in many other offices across campus. \nYou were introduced to many of my colleagues when thousands of you participated in CultureFest last week, and I congratulate everyone who attended. But don't let CultureFest be the first and last diversity program you attend at IU. Why is diversity education so important, and why should you care? Historically, diversity education in institutions of higher learning has sought to promote cultural awareness, cross-cultural dialogue and other diversity programs designed to lessen possible prejudices harbored by students and to create a campus climate conducive for academic success for all students. Additionally, diversity education has served to promote a fair and equitable society beyond graduation. Currently, in this time of changing demographics and a global economy, it's more important than ever to be open to, and informed about, diverse populations. \nWe still strongly believe in a pluralistic and just society where citizens are treated fairly and equitably, but the case for diversity education is even stronger now on an individual level. Employers want employees with the knowledge, skills and experience to work in diverse workplaces. Basic diversity awareness is no longer adequate in preparing college graduates for their varying careers or for the challenges they may face in an ever-changing society. Students now must have at least a basic set of multicultural competencies to compete in the job market and succeed. \nYou are still not convinced? You should care because you will increase your marketability for employment if you have complimented your academic curriculum with diversity education. The benefits of diversity in higher education are multifaceted. There are personal, institutional, societal and economic benefits to diversity -- but don't take my word on it. Participate and find out for yourself.\nStudents often tell me they are tired of hearing about diversity at IU, but when I ask them what programs they have participated in, they haven't been to anything. They are just tired of hearing the word "diversity" without ever finding out what it means and why it is important at IU. There are literally hundreds of programs and opportunities throughout the year for you to participate in and learn from. I encourage students and faculty to contact me, my colleagues in the culture centers and others to find out what events are coming up. Among the many plans I have to promote diversity education on campus, I am extremely excited about a new student organization, the Social Justice League.\nThe SJL will promote social justice by providing educational programs that encourage civil debate on difficult issues. Members will train to be activists and assist other socially conscious groups on campus with their programs. The SJL with also bring student representatives from a variety of organizations together to foster collaboration and unity at IU. The first SJL mass meeting is Tuesday. Contact my office or e-mail elove@indiana.edu for more information.