Wesleyan community engaged in anti-racism efforts on campus

Tuesday, September 1, 2020

As we continue to learn, grow, and lead, Wesleyan College has made changes to our curriculum and extracurricular activities, and we have set goals to fight racism, promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and shed light on white privilege. This academic year, Wesleyan students, faculty, and staff will be required to engage in learning opportunities focused on anti-racism. As a place where young people can grow and develop their voices, we commit to creating a community that reflects the vision and the future of this institution.

In May, President Fowler announced chief diversity officer as a new cabinet-level position and appointed Tonya Parker '01 to serve in the role. Parker also serves Wesleyan as Title IX coordinator. On August 12, she facilitated DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) training and Title IX discussions with Wesleyan's resident advisors and orientation leaders. "Our student leaders are expected to exemplify the behavior that is expected of our students; therefore, they participate in trainings and workshops to prepare them to serve other students with respect, compassion, and an understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusion."

On August 13, Parker and Wesleyan Counselor Myrana Craig invited students to join a discussion on black student wellness, social justice, and the impact of racism on black students. The session offered students space to share their thoughts, feelings, concerns, and fears, and to learn coping mechanisms to care for their mind, bodies, emotions, spirit, and overall health. A series of discussions will be offered throughout the semester.

During Pack Weekend, Parker held a session entitled "Creating a Culture of Respect," an hour-long interactive presentation for all first-year and transfer students. It encompassed an overview of individual, cultural, and racial identity; respect for others by calling them by their preferred names and pronouns; and awareness of biases, stereotyping, and discriminatory acts and behaviors. The importance of communication and open-mindedness were highlighted as ways to get to know others on campus, as well as how each person is responsible for doing his or her part to create and maintain a welcoming, accepting community and culture of respect.