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Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion

One U Thriving

Centers & Offices

Announcements

Apr
24

Celebrating Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month at the U

The Center for Equity & Student Belonging encourages campus and community to "Bloom with Us" for AAPI Heritage Month.

Apr
19

Taking a turnkey operation to the next level

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion welcomes Harry Hawkins as the new director of the LGBT Resource Center. Hawkins comes to Utah from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, and is excited to continue the legacy of advocacy work at the U.

Mar
20

Unstoppable

Pride Week 2023 events will feature an exciting calendar of events prepared for our campus, including drag shows, markets, talent competitions, queer prom, and more.

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Announcements

Apr
24

Celebrating Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month at the U

The Center for Equity & Student Belonging encourages campus and community to "Bloom with Us" for AAPI Heritage Month.

Apr
19

Taking a turnkey operation to the next level

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion welcomes Harry Hawkins as the new director of the LGBT Resource Center. Hawkins comes to Utah from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, and is excited to continue the legacy of advocacy work at the U.

Mar
20

Unstoppable

Pride Week 2023 events will feature an exciting calendar of events prepared for our campus, including drag shows, markets, talent competitions, queer prom, and more.

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Announcements  MEDiversity  MLK  National Conversations  News  Pow Wow  Pride  Student Perspectives  U Remembers  Women's Week  

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May 3, 2023

BCC’s Operation S.U.C.C.E.S.S. provides opportunities for educational attainment

Upon completion, Operation S.U.C.C.E.S.S. fellows attain expertise that helps them become the next generation of great community leaders.

Apr 28, 2023

Dear Graduating Class of 2023

Mary Ann Villarreal, vice president for Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion shares a personal message for the class of 2023.

Apr 26, 2023

Why Lavender Graduation means so much to participants

“In a year where we have seen an assault on LGBTQ rights across the country, Lavender Graduation is more important than ever before,” said Harry Hawkins, director of the U’s LGBT Resource Center.

Apr 24, 2023

Celebrating Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month at the U

The Center for Equity & Student Belonging encourages campus and community to “Bloom with Us” for AAPI Heritage Month.

Apr 21, 2023

Positive steps and need to keep improving highlight the recent State of the Black U

Leaders, students, and staff gathered to share vital information affecting Black representation and wellbeing at the University of Utah.

Apr 19, 2023

Taking a turnkey operation to the next level

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion welcomes Harry Hawkins as the new director of the LGBT Resource Center. Hawkins comes to Utah from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, and is excited to continue the legacy of advocacy work at the U.

Apr 14, 2023

University of Utah Pow Wow bridges the gap between communities and generations

This year’s Pow Wow offered the campus and community a chance to celebrate Native American arts and traditions at the U of U.

Apr 10, 2023

MEDiversity Week returns in 2023 with a focus on anti-ageism and age-friendly care

As Americans age, the nation’s health care system will need to pay greater attention to the needs of older adults.

Apr 7, 2023

New Leadership Academy transforms through knowledge, tools, and courage

The New Leadership Academy is changing the way we approach leadership development and expanding the way we think about our leaders.

Apr 5, 2023

Pride Week at the U is unstoppable!

The University of Utah celebrated Pride Week with a series of events that highlighted the LGBTQIA+ community’s resilience.

Mar 29, 2023

Elevating Indigenous youth

Ph.D. student Anisha Marion reflects on the importance of protecting Indigenous traditions.

Mar 28, 2023

Cultural & Resource Center Spotlight: LGBT Resource Center

The LGBT Resource Center provides a place of community and belonging.

Mar 22, 2023

Cultural & Resource Center Spotlight: Center for Equity & Student Belonging

The Center for Equity & Student Belonging is using multiple methods to help students feel seen on campus.

Mar 20, 2023

Unstoppable

Pride Week 2023 events will feature an exciting calendar of events prepared for our campus, including drag shows, markets, talent competitions, queer prom, and more.

Mar 15, 2023

Ensuring belonging for all

Building student belonging is a powerful step toward creating a stronger and healthier U.

Mar 13, 2023

Cultural & Resource Center Spotlight: Black Cultural Center

The Black Cultural Center charts a course for success for Black U students.

Mar 9, 2023

Women’s Week Demonstrates the Power of the Personal

In a dozen Women’s Week, campus-wide events, public policies were connected to personal experiences.

Mar 7, 2023

Cultural & Resource Center Spotlight: American Indian Resource Center

The American Indian Resource Center is using a holistic approach to create more comprehensive support for Native scholars at the U.

Mar 1, 2023

Cultural & Resource Center Spotlight: Dream Center

The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion resource center is helping undocumented students follow their educational dreams.

Feb 23, 2023

New Recommendations from the Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion Strategy Council

The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy Council continues to push forward with new recommendations for creating a more equitable and inclusive campus.

Feb 22, 2023

Women’s Week at the U gets personal

This year’s theme, “Making Public Policy Personal,” focuses on the various ways that the public and private intersect.

Feb 14, 2023

Celebrating excellence

A dozen awardees will be recognized for their contributions in an impressive number of areas across the University of Utah.

Feb 10, 2023

A game changing partnership in equity

The University of Utah’s HBCU Partnerships program keeps on growing and generating success.

Feb 8, 2023

Make your own anti-racism plan

The Anti-Racism Committee has begun to develop an anti-racism template to guide departments and centers in their pursuit of dismantling structures that promote and uphold racial inequality.

Jan 31, 2023

Crowds choose love over hate at the U during MLK Week

More than 1,500 attendees showed up across campus to honor lessons of Dr. King during the University of Utah’s MLK Week.

Jan 31, 2023

Excitement building over second Day of Collective Action

On the second annual Day of Collective Action, the U encourages everyone to get involved.

Jan 23, 2023

Amplifying community engagement

The U can strengthen each of the communities it touches by shaping and extending the power of partnership.

Jan 18, 2023

Enhancing community bridges

Meet EDI’s senior communication manager, David Hawkins-Jacinto (he/him/elle), an experienced writer, educator, and community builder who brings a new skill set to the marketing and communications team.

Jan 12, 2023

2023 Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Leadership Awards recipients

U Alumni and Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion are proud to announce the 2023 MLK Youth Leadership Awards recipients.

Jan 4, 2023

The strength to choose love over hate

Dr. King’s notion of love wasn’t the amorous western ideal; King’s love required strength—even defiance in the pursuit of justice and equity.

Jan 3, 2023

New year brings fellows and new growth

NLA is pleased to announce the selection of its new 2023 cohort, representing a broad range of academic leaders, scholars, and administrators who are invested in advancing equity and inclusion in higher education.

Dec 8, 2022

More than a game

Utah’s women’s basketball begins its historic Pac-12/SWAC Legacy Series in Mississippi

Dec 7, 2022

Practices to increase accessibility

The inaugural Day of Disability & Neurodiversity showcased examples of accessibility best practices and discussed areas of improvement for the U.

Dec 1, 2022

Advocating for women faculty

The workgroup Women in Health, Medicine, & Science leads the charge to support and mentor women in healthcare professions and advocate for gender equity and inclusivity.

Nov 30, 2022

Serving the entire University of Utah

Meet EDI’s Latinx initiatives manager, Dr. Paméla Cappas-Toro (she/ella/ela), a scholar who applies social justice praxis for community engagement and campus belonging.

Nov 21, 2022

Day of Disability and Neurodiversity

The Day of Disability & Neurodiversity will recognize the year-round importance of promoting understanding and inclusivity on campus and facilitating discussions on ways to improve access for all.

Nov 18, 2022

A campus-wide strategy to build equity, diversity, & inclusion

As the University of Utah continues to grow more diverse, the institution itself must evolve to create a more welcoming and supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Nov 8, 2022

Finding community and sharpening skills

The Center for Equity and Student Belonging shares some insight into their latest affinity-based, high-impact programming.

Nov 2, 2022

The Erasure of History

The Fall 2022 U Remembers, “Erasure of History,” will offer solutions against the whitewashing of history and urge us to push back against antisemitism as we work toward a more inclusive future.

Oct 24, 2022

Leadership in Inclusive Excellence Awardees 2022

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion is honored to announce the recipients of the 2022 Leadership in Inclusive Excellence Awards. These organizations and individuals are shining examples of equity transformation and leadership at University of Utah Health.

Oct 19, 2022

Securing health equity for all

This year’s MEDiversity Week theme, “Securing Health Equity for All,” will explore how we can develop policies, practices, and programs that move us closer to the goal of eliminating health disparities.

Oct 17, 2022

Day of Intersectionality

The University of Utah’s first Day of Intersectionality explored the ways this concept is being used to deepen and expand our understanding of human experience.

Oct 7, 2022

American Indian Woman Scholar shines light on boarding schools

Kiyanna Porter, ‘22-’23 American Indian Woman Scholar, organized an Orange Shirt Day on Sept. 30, elevating awareness of boarding schools and honoring the survivors and those who never made it home.

Oct 5, 2022

Guidance between knowledge and wisdom

Keith Embray is an alum of the University of Utah who has recently returned in a dual capacity with EDI and Athletics. Get to know Keith and his goals for student belonging at the U.

Sep 28, 2022

Understanding intersectionality

Today the basic principles of intersectionality are widely accepted. Yet it remains a difficult, misunderstood, and sometimes controversial concept.

Sep 23, 2022

How to Get Involved

There are a variety of ways you can get involved at the University of Utah—and several campus resources to help you get connected.

Sep 16, 2022

Fostering an Inclusive Campus Climate

A healthy campus climate benefits all community members, not just those who have been historically underrepresented. How can a thriving campus climate be achieved?

Sep 6, 2022

Unlocking success through belonging

The Male Success Initiative will challenge existing narratives of success, mitigate achievement gaps, and nurture the academic and professional development of male-identifying students at the University of Utah.

Sep 2, 2022

University leadership’s statement of support for DACA students

The University of Utah is committed to our undocumented students, with or without DACA. We will continue to do everything in our power to help and protect our students.

Aug 31, 2022

New leaders, new pathways

The New Leadership Academy continues to pursue new pathways to providing exceptional and accessible leadership development opportunities focused on leading with equity.

Aug 17, 2022

Celebrating 20 years of the LGBT Resource Center

Since 2002, the LGBT Resource Center has provided support, community, leadership development, and advocacy to LGBTQIA+ students as well as education and cultural events for the University of Utah community.

Aug 10, 2022

Welcome home

Vice President Mary Ann Villarreal welcomes back new and returning folx to another start of an academic year.

Aug 8, 2022

An ambassador for the U

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) is pleased to announce that Rodney T. Cohen, EdD (he/him) has joined the division as the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Partnership Manager.

Jun 27, 2022

Charting a new path forward

Since its launch in spring 2021, the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy Council has been applying preparations for embedding equitable systems within the U. AVP Emma E. Houston shares what has taken place over the last year and what can be expected in the next.

Jun 15, 2022

Knowledge, tools, and courage

In a successful conclusion of its first cohort since transitioning to the University of Utah, the New Leadership Academy (NLA) held its annual NLA Summer Institute in Salt Lake City.

Jun 8, 2022

Juneteenth at the U

Juneteenth has evolved into a celebration of Black freedom throughout the United States. This year’s campus celebrations will highlight Black resilience, determination and progress and examine the continuing struggle for racial justice.

Jun 1, 2022

Thank you for your feedback!

Thank you for participating in the EDI event survey this spring! Explore the results and how they will be applied next year.

May 24, 2022

Choosing and celebrating inclusivity

June is LGBTQIA+ Pride Month! After celebrating with the LGBT Resource Center at Utah Pride, keep the momentum going by making small, intentional decisions to create a campus culture that is inclusive overall.

May 3, 2022

Shared cultures, histories and heritages

May is National Asian American/Pacific Islander Heritage Month. In a brief conversation, three folx discuss why this observance is important to them and the celebratory solidarity they hope will ripple through the Utah community.

Apr 29, 2022

Finding strength in community

Meet the Class of 2022’s Second Year Experience graduates and glean some insight and advice from their experience as first-generation students.

Apr 27, 2022

A Holocaust Survivor Story

In sharing her family’s Holocaust survivor story, Diane Hartz Warsoff recounted hope amid horrors and courageous actions of those who refused to remain bystanders.

Apr 19, 2022

EDI Presidential Interns

Meet the presidential interns who helped shape EDI’s strategic happenings for the 2021-2022 academic year.

Apr 15, 2022

Protecting the Truth

It’s critical that we ensure our students today are not shielded from a deep understanding of the atrocities of the past, and we need to tell this history in many different ways in order to protect the truth and ensure that it endures.

Apr 1, 2022

The road to solidarity and social justice

In sharing her personal journey of building solidarity into social justice work, Raquel Willis emphasized the lifelong commitment needed for true advocacy and solidarity.

Mar 25, 2022

In solidarity

Vice President Mary Ann Villarreal shares a personal take on this year’s Pride Week at the U theme, “Solidarity.”

Mar 23, 2022

Champions & changemakers

Congratulations to the 2022 recipients of the Linda K. Amos Award and Elizabeth Fuhriman Gardner Prize!

Mar 18, 2022

Day of Collective Action

The Day of Collective Action is a starting point. All are encouraged to participate in this institution-wide event to deepen our understanding, fortify our resolve, and take specific action steps against racism, bias, and discrimination.

Mar 16, 2022

Agitating for justice

Keynote Ericka Hart reminded Women’s Week attendees that discomfort and agitation are requisites for social justice work and fighting intersecting systems of oppression.

Mar 9, 2022

Shift. Strive. Thrive.

In light of the last two years, Women’s Week will provide a space to recognize how different stressors manifest and affect women in various ways. We don’t just survive. We shift, strive, and thrive.

Mar 3, 2022

An invitation to celebrate the whole of all of us

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and Alumni Relations are planning a new intersectional graduation ceremony to honor our beautiful and complex histories, experiences, communities, and families.

Feb 22, 2022

Imagine More

As a challenge to imagine more for the future of students and patients at the University of Utah, U Giving Day provides a terrific opportunity to support any EDI initiatives close to one’s heart.

Feb 15, 2022

How do we close equity gaps?

Data has shown a history of educational inequity; however, numbers alone have only taken us so far. Thus we continue to ask, how do we close equity gaps?

Feb 8, 2022

Students united to create cultural and educational success stories

The application process for the second cohort of Operation S.U.C.C.E.S.S. has begun! Learn about the inaugural cohort, what the program means to them, and their experience as S.U.C.C.E.S.S. fellows.

Feb 2, 2022

Transformative Intersectional Collective

The School for Cultural and Social Transformation has been awarded a grant to establish an intersectional studies collective. Following a three-year plan, Transform has goals of establishing the University of Utah as a leader in this area of study.

Jan 26, 2022

Authentically U

What does it mean to be authentic and undisputed? What does it mean to be genuine in everything that you do? How do you come present as your most authentic self?

Jan 19, 2022

Bridging the divide

The 2022 MLK Week explored the theme “Becoming the Beloved Community” with events and conversations that examined ways to bridge the divide and work together to achieve Dr. King’s vision of a just world where love, trust, and peace prevail.

Jan 12, 2022

Shining examples of the Beloved Community

Congratulations to this year’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Leadership Award recipients!

Jan 5, 2022

Becoming the beloved community

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke of the “beloved community” as a nonviolent, just society where love and trust triumph over fear and hatred.

Dec 1, 2021

IntersectX12: Native American Heritage

November may be over, but honoring Native American Heritage is not.

Nov 23, 2021

Advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion in research

In nurturing a community in which everyone feels they belong, applying an equity, diversity, and inclusion lens to research is critically important.

Nov 17, 2021

2021 Inclusive Excellence Awardees

Congratulations to the Inclusive Excellence Awards 2021 recipients! Thank you to all who nominated and recognized University of Utah Health folx who exemplify leadership in inclusive excellence.

Nov 10, 2021

Priorities for health

As the keynote for MEDiversity Week, Dr. Sandro Galea reviewed lessons from COVID-19 and urged attendees to advocate for and invest into making and maintaining a healthy community in a post-pandemic era.

Nov 3, 2021

Grounded by Indigenous love, resilience in kinship

Through the resilience we have in kinship, we still persist. We’re still here. We’re still learning. We’re still growing.

Oct 27, 2021

Celebrating intersectionality in health education and care

Imagine a world where the health care provider recognized more than just the obvious identities of their patient and instead addressed the “whole” patient.

Oct 20, 2021

Find your center

“I really don’t know if I would have finished school without the center.” The Center for Equity and Student Belonging’s new model will continue to elevate community and connections.

Oct 13, 2021

Cultivating transparency

The Racist and Bias Incident Response Team oversees university protocols, programs, and processes in order to provide appropriate and calculated responses to incidents involving bias and racism at the university.

Oct 5, 2021

Thriving in the fullness of our complex selves

The LGBT Resource Center shares insight into the center’s new initiatives for QTSOC community building and advice on how we can all contribute to a more inclusive campus.

Sep 29, 2021

The ethics of medicine

Harriet A. Washington is a prolific science writer, editor, and ethicist. The University of Utah will welcome Dr. Washington to virtually speak to the campus community during three events Oct. 7-8, 2021.

Sep 22, 2021

Celebrate/é

“Celebrate/é” means an opportunity to put our voices out there, showcase our cultures and experiences, and tell our stories from our own perspectives. We need to celebrate each other, celebrate ourselves, and celebrate our campus diversity as a community.

Sep 16, 2021

Leading with Equity

Friday Forums on Racism in Higher Education are back for a second season. Learn how to intentionally practice equity in your workplace, classroom, and community on September 24.

Sep 8, 2021

IntersectX12

We are excited to announce IntersectX12: A new brand, initiative, and way of thinking about all the many nationally recognized months, weeks, and days intended to honor and celebrate various heritages and identities.

Sep 1, 2021

Reframing the Conversation returns

Reframing the Conversation from Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) returns for the 2021-2022 academic year! Join for timely, critical monthly conversations with experts from across Utah.

Aug 25, 2021

Exchanging ideas

The Presidential Commission on the Status of Women provides leadership and expertise to the University of Utah community in promoting women in their various roles and activities and serves as a forum for the exchange of ideas within the university.

Aug 18, 2021

The power of community

It is with a renewed sense of joy that we welcome all of you back onto our physical campus, into classrooms and gathering spaces, and invite you to join in our community both in-person and at a distance.

Aug 13, 2021

Critical conversations

The Anti-Racism Committee recommends and evaluates measures to ensure that everyone enjoys a campus free of racism and hate. Co-Chair Bryan Hubain shares the Committee’s priorities for the upcoming year and how you can join in this effort.

Aug 4, 2021

Center for Equity and Student Belonging

Center for Ethnic Student Affairs is rebranding and strategizing as they focus on serving the increasingly diverse student population at the U by becoming the Center for Equity and Student Belonging.

Jul 21, 2021

Building in access

The Universal Design and Access Committee works to enhance university accessibility according to the principles of Universal Design in areas such as curriculum, built environment, technology and information, campus events, and workplace inclusivity.

Jul 14, 2021

Shared equity leadership

It takes the courage and dedication of many leaders, with diverse talents and strengths and united vision, to create a more equitable university environment. How could this type of distributed but collaborative leadership look?

Jul 6, 2021

A platform for EDI

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion’s “One U Thriving Newsletter” will be the best way to keep updated on EDI. Learn from two folx behind the weekly newsletter on why they are rebranding and how to stay tuned with EDI.

Jun 30, 2021

Identity, affirmation, and belonging

We must continue to work towards implementing practices that honor students’ preferred names across campus offices and modes of communication.

Jun 10, 2021

Announcing Operation S.U.C.C.E.S.S.

S.U.C.C.E.S.S. stands for Students United to Create Cultural and Educational Success Stories, and the Black Cultural Center is looking for students who are ready to do just that!

May 19, 2021

Beyond a moment of solidarity

A year ago, people across the country moved to action when images of the death of George Floyd surfaced. Our work is not done.

May 7, 2021

Welcoming new growth

As we aspire to make our campus a space where everyone has the ability to achieve success, the Black Advisory Council will advise EDI and support the growth and climate of the Black community at the U.

Apr 26, 2021

The first graduation gift

As you move into the next chapter in your journey, I hope you will consider the experiences you’ve had at the University of Utah—the first graduation gift—and that it continues to nourish your transformation.

Apr 19, 2021

The relentless spirit of spring

We’re proud to present this collection of 2021 graduates and invite you to join us in celebration of the knowledge that they’re on their way to weathering life’s winter months together only to return stronger, sturdier, and more glorious.

Apr 15, 2021

Committing to never again

When it comes to being an effective ally, we must not remain silent, but challenge and change the narrative. Commit today to never remain silent in the face of bigotry and injustice.

Apr 13, 2021

White supremacy and antisemitism

Where do nationalism and nativist othering come into a discussion of antisemitism and Whiteness? Our panel of experts discussed how antisemitism is closely related to and emerges from various forms of othering.

Apr 9, 2021

What’s in a name?

Have you ever said something that unintentionally had a negative impact? Confront your racism, your participation in the legacies of settler colonialism – let it be the beginning of a deeper conversation, the opening of that door, a strengthening of us.

Apr 9, 2021

Parts of the whole

It’s impossible to fully understand the lives of individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community without also acknowledging the intricacies that race, gender, sexuality, ethnicities, class, religion, and other identities bring to a single person’s story.

Apr 4, 2021

Breaking the silence

“Breaking the Silence” aims to foster a deeper understanding of the Holocaust and to inspire community members to combat the rise of antisemitism and White supremacy by moving from bystanders to active participants.

Mar 31, 2021

A space for joy

Vice President Villarreal reminds us of the revolutionary joy in celebrating all our intersecting identities.

Mar 26, 2021

Queer at the intersections

“Queer at the Intersections,” encourages everyone to contemplate LGBTQIA+ lives and issues through different intersections of identity, including race, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, and class.

Mar 18, 2021

We will not let hate win

Please join us in naming, disrupting, and dismantling the anti-Asian hate on our campus, in our neighborhoods, and in our country.

Mar 17, 2021

Women who run

2020 marked yet another historic moment for more women running for office than any previous election. Panelists reflected on what inspired them to run for office, the challenges and successes they experienced in government, and how and why more women should run.

Mar 11, 2021

Not a One-Woman Show

Ruffin stressed the importance of women realizing their value, speaking out against inequities, and supporting each other.

Mar 5, 2021

Inspiring a movement

The Women’s Week 2021 theme “Inspiring a Movement” reflects the importance of role models in advancing women’s political leadership.

Mar 3, 2021

2021 Black Faculty + Staff Awardees

Congratulations to the 2021 Black Faculty and Staff Award recipients!

Feb 19, 2021

Charting a new path

The New Leadership Academy Fellows Program (NLA) is moving to the University of Utah! Our efforts are not only integrating into the fabric of One U, but essential to the U’s leadership as a top national research flagship university.

Feb 17, 2021

Black is not a monolith

Despite the vast array of cultural/ethnic backgrounds and lived experiences in the African diaspora, each Black person is united by how their brown skin is interpreted in America.

Feb 12, 2021

Transformative voices

Since co-founding the BCC, each of these transformative voices have continued to support and contribute to the success of students and community at the U and beyond.

Jan 28, 2021

Telling his story

As the 2021 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK) Week keynote speaker, Porter imparted viewers with the gift of having a deeper understanding of the man behind the legacy of “good trouble.”

Jan 22, 2021

Good trouble & the redline

The divisions of modern U.S. cities and de-facto segregation did not arise by accident. Our panelists examined what enabled redlining and pervasive environmental racism to shape our communities and what can be done to combat their effects.

Jan 18, 2021

Good & necessary

John Lewis is a historical and modern day fixture of the persistent battle for racial and social justice. Though he recently passed in July of 2020, this year’s MLK Week theme honors his philosophy of “good trouble.”

Jan 17, 2021

MLK Week Virtual Kick-off

Welcome, and thank you for joining us for the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Week Virtual Kick-Off!

Jan 8, 2021

The future of good trouble

Congratulations to the 2021 Youth Leadership Award Recipients! As an integral tradition of MLK Week, the award honors 7-12th grade students who demonstrate dedication to leadership in their communities and daily activities.

Nov 19, 2020

The intersection of EDI and public safety

The summer of social unrest has prompted soul-searching in higher education as campuses experience more racist incidents and students voice concerns about interactions with police.

Nov 13, 2020

Reclaiming Visibility

AI/AN communities remain invisible to non-Native society — illustrated through the high numbers of murdered and missing Indigenous women and youth. While this issue has been prominent for many years, it has not been visible in the national dialogue until very recently.

Nov 11, 2020

Forged in our society

Across the globe, there has been increasing acknowledgment of injustices such as health inequities, racism, and the vital changes needed to address these disparities. One such group often left out of the equity, diversity, and inclusion focus is people with disabilities.

Oct 26, 2020

Introducing MEDiversity Week

We look forward to virtually gathering with you to continue learning how we can best move the work of equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism forward in our academic, clinical, and personal lives.

Oct 19, 2020

Unmasking “ignorance”

In Utah, the deadline for voter registration is October 23. As part of our encouragement and reminder to register, we invite you to read Unmasking “ignorance” — an assessment on public narratives around voting access/suppression and mitigation of such claims.

Oct 16, 2020

A generational layer cake

In celebration of LGBTQIA+ History Month, we took a look back at the queer legacy in Utah. Prominent leaders and activists discussed their journeys to make the U more inclusive and acknowledged what remains to be done.

Oct 12, 2020

Indigenous Peoples’ Day

As a public university and the flagship institution of higher education in the state, the University of Utah, in its mission to provide access to high-quality education for all, has a responsibility to serve and partner with Native Nations.

Oct 5, 2020

Making history

Kamala Harris’ groundbreaking nomination advances a narrative of racial complexity, opening the door for many of us to confront our need to create one identity, one politic, one reality in how we navigate race in this country.

Sep 28, 2020

Shared desires and needs

Centering on dynamics of othering affecting people of Asian descent in America, “The Rise of Anti-Asian Hate” shared experiences and observations of bias and ways to unify with like-minded movements to eliminate systemic inequities.

Sep 14, 2020

The rise of anti-Asian hate

Reframing the Conversation will be relaunched as a monthly virtual panel series with the September iteration discussing Asian American experiences during the age of COVID-19.

Aug 31, 2020

A call to action

There can be no movement forward on anti-racism unless every person on campus commits to examining bias and discrimination across our institution, taking action, and amplifying the voices of the marginalized in developing more equitable initiatives.

Aug 24, 2020

Welcome Back Bash

While we all work through various degrees of challenges, changes, and triumphs that accompany the start of a semester, we hope you are able to connect with our centers to maintain community and formulate a support system as you take on the academic year.

Jun 1, 2020

Dear University Community

We know this is a most difficult time for many in our community with the developments of the last few months. The EDI family is also in pain as we too are experiencing frustration and anger as we begin to process what the last few days have meant in this country.

May 18, 2020

Supporting our familia

Now is the time for us to examine how COVID-19 affects communities of color at a higher rate, and more importantly—what we are willing to do as a society to end this kind of disparity?

Apr 20, 2020

2020 Graduate Spotlights

We are honored to be presenting these exceptional students and their stories to you. Please join us in celebration of the class of 2020!

Mar 13, 2020

No time for hate: COVID-19 stigma

In this time of crisis, it is essential that we lift up our commitment to the values of inclusivity within our campus.

Mar 11, 2020

What it takes

“Warrior” is a title granted to those who demonstrate extraordinary strength when faced with adversity; and during Women’s Week 2020 we were fortunate to be in the presence of a group of women that are truly deserving of this title of honor.

Mar 11, 2020

A message to our community

We want to acknowledge the struggles, sadness and anger over the barriers that still exist for LGBTQIA+ students as their dreams and goals become realized through educational attainment and persistence toward graduation.

Feb 24, 2020

Allies in activism

2020 is the centennial anniversary of the 19th Amendment in the U.S. And yet, the 2020 Global Gender Gap Report notes the U.S. in the third quartile of political empowerment. In order to gain full gender parity, the inequalities within and intersecting with gender must also be addressed.

Feb 20, 2020

Reframing the Conversation

An upcoming panel series will bring together experts from across campus and the community to spark important conversations around racism, othering, and safety.

Feb 17, 2020

A right to remember & celebrate

For Black History Month 2020, the BCC is celebrating its 1st anniversary! We took the opportunity to learn how this past year has impacted BCC staff and shaped how this space contributes to countless journeys on campus.

Feb 10, 2020

Agents of change

For MLK Week 2020, we explored ways to Face Everything And Rise; and our keynote, Aisha Moodie-Mills is a seasoned expert at turning feelings of anger, frustration, and fear into tangible change for a better future.

Jan 27, 2020

A deadly diagnosis

“A Deadly Diagnosis,” the U Remembers 2020 theme, will explore traces from the Nazi worldview of othering found in medical and social realms today and how we can reflect on the harm these dynamics cause as we push forward into a more inclusive future.

Jan 13, 2020

Face Everything And Rise

When each MLK Day rolls around, a flood of emotions come to mind. Celebration, inspiration, motivation, and hope to name a few; but this year’s MLK Week theme may appear quite the opposite of the positive sentiments at first.

Dec 24, 2019

Drawing strength from fear

Our 2020 MLK Week keynote is Aisha Moodie-Mills! We asked her a few questions on overcoming fear and fighting for progress.

Nov 25, 2019

#GivingTuesday

We will be participating in the U’s Giving Tuesday with the intent of supporting two entities striving to foster equity and inclusion on our campus: the American Indian Resource Center and LGBT Resource Center.

Oct 11, 2019

Surviving and thriving

During this year’s Pride Week, we were reminded of this original foundation of Pride but also found hope within the stories of queeroes who joined us and who came before us. Check out this recap whenever you need help remembering the queero within you!

Sep 30, 2019

Queeroes unite!

It’s Pride Week at the U! In the spirit of this year’s theme, “Queeroes: Reclaiming Hero”, we are spotlighting some exceptional “queeroes” who share their personal queer heroes and offer advice for living as your true self.

Sep 23, 2019

Queeroes

What is a queero? Learn all about this year’s Pride theme and how it will be incorporated throughout the week.

Sep 16, 2019

Intent vs. impact

National Hispanic Heritage Month is from Sept. 15 – Oct. 15, and while the intent of heritage months may be thought of as celebratory recognition for communities within the U.S., many of our campus community members feel differently.

Jun 24, 2019

A beacon of equality

The 50th anniversary of Stonewall is this week! We interviewed this year’s Pride Week Co-chairs on the development of the LGBTQ+ rights movement and the many queer heroes, or queeroes, that have emerged throughout its progression.

Jun 17, 2019

Tardigrades, radio and geeking out

Meet Meligha Garfield, our inaugural Director for the Black Cultural Center! He just started this month, and we asked some personal and whimsical questions to get to know him a little better.

Apr 29, 2019

2019 Graduate Spotlights

There are some exceptional students graduating this year, so we had to spotlight them! Check out their U experiences/accomplishments and what words of advice they give to current and future students.

Apr 22, 2019

Beyond walls

Transform students presented an oral and visual interactive tour on socio-legal, cultural, and ethnic studies perspectives surrounding immigration through presentations, written work, and visual display.

Apr 15, 2019

Indigenous rising

The University of Utah 47th Annual Pow Wow will be held this weekend! This year’s theme “Indigenous Rising: Warriors in Leadership” celebrates recent electoral wins and provides inspiration and encouragement to younger generations.

Apr 8, 2019

A tradition of resilience

Lavender Graduation is an annual ceremony conducted on numerous campuses to honor graduating LGBTQIA+ students. At the U, we will be reaching a milestone by celebrating our 15th annual Lavender Graduation on campus!

Mar 22, 2019

Celebrating 50 years of Ethnic Studies at the U

For the 50th Anniversary of Ethnic Studies, we interviewed Dr. Edmund Fong, our Chair of Ethnic Studies, to learn more about the development, current culture, and outlook of Ethnic Studies on a local and national scale.

Mar 11, 2019

Radical creativity

Gabby Rivera joined us to celebrate her joy, encourage us to find our own within our ancestors and stories, and gave us a glimpse into the inspirations for her writing.

Mar 1, 2019

Puppies, books and the revolution

Gabby Rivera is a Bronx-born, queer Latinx writer, and our 2019 Women’s Week keynote! We asked a few questions to better understand Rivera’s philosophies and how she exercises them in her own life.

Feb 25, 2019

Student activism

Students have always been at the center of transforming higher education; making it more inclusive with every graduating class. The U will be opening its inaugural Black Cultural Center, which was spearheaded by student leaders.

Feb 4, 2019

Black History Month matters

February is Black History Month, a time for individuals within the pan-African diaspora to express their talents and contributions on a large scale. For the Black Student Union (BSU), it’s a time of reflection.

Jan 25, 2019

Strong movements

Charlene Carruthers, 2019 MLK Week keynote, reminded us all that one individual cannot make or break a movement. It takes a collective, tackling an issue together to make it happen. Do you want to organize a movement? Ask yourself these five questions…

Jan 9, 2019

Commit, organize, take action

A series of bright-colored posters found around campus share quotes from thought-leading activists. They serve as a reminder that a collective approach is vital for social change.

Nov 5, 2018

Building an educational bridge

Strong community, resilient history and vibrant traditions are key elements of the Pacific Islands culture. These same elements are the foundation of the PI Studies initiative — and a new $600,000 grant.

Nov 1, 2018

Día de los Muertos is not a “Mexican Halloween”

Despite the growing popularity of the festivities and their symbols, both within and outside of the U.S. Latinx community, few really know the meaning of the celebration.

Oct 22, 2018

Parallels of the White Rose Resistance

Dr. Jud Newborn, our 2018 U Remembers keynote, draws lessons and parallels from resistance during the time of the Holocaust and the resistance in today’s current events.

Oct 8, 2018

What are we really celebrating?

Columbus Day – a day that honors Christopher Columbus and his arrival to the Americas in 1492 – romanticizes colonization while ignoring the existence and narrative of indigenous people.

Aug 27, 2018

In the direction of diverse student advocacy

Tawanda Carson Owens is to become the new Executive Director for Diverse Student Advocacy, an advocate position for the students served and the programs offered by OED.

May 28, 2018

The writing’s on the wall

Art can be an incredibly powerful messaging tool when used properly. Ella Mendoza, an undocumented and queer multi-disciplinary artist, uses their art to advocate for social justice.

Apr 30, 2018

Claiming space

Affinity celebrations are responses to historical and ongoing exclusion and marginalization, allowing students to celebrate their persistence and resistance through college with their family, friends, and peers.

Apr 30, 2018

2018 Graduate Spotlights

We’ve highlighted a few of our students that are graduating this year! Learn more about them and what advice they have as they reflect on their university experience.

Apr 2, 2018

Pow Wow etiquette

While the Pow Wow is free and open to the public, organizers encourage attendees to be respectful and adhere to proper pow wow etiquette.

Mar 19, 2018

Bystander intervention tips for spring break

While Spring Break is a time to take care of yourself, keep an eye out to help others as well.

Mar 19, 2018

Self-care: narcissistic or necessary?

Self-care is any deliberate act to take care of our mental, emotional, and/or physical health. In our own routines, we must consider where to draw the line in judging other’s efforts.

Mar 6, 2018

Ciriac Alvarez Valle

Documentation. The metric the United States government uses to determine a person’s rights within the U.S. Here is a story of a U alumna who has had first-hand experience.

Mar 6, 2018

Irene Ota

Standing against bigotry and discrimination, Irene Ota’s passion and work centers around raising awareness of privilege and oppression. But it was her life experiences that lead her to her passion.

Mar 6, 2018

On resilience

“We are powerful because we have survived, and that is what it is all about — survival and growth.” – Audre Lorde

Feb 20, 2018

Representation, mental health and “Black Panther”

Black History Month and celebrations of Black life going forward should be mindful of the “intersections of our identities, so that ‘Black’ doesn’t just mean cis-het, Hollywood size, Christian, and able-bodied.”

Feb 8, 2018

Tampons are not a luxury. Period.

Toilet paper: essential, right? The U provides toilet paper in all the restrooms on campus, because it is a basic personal hygiene necessity. But what about the basic personal hygiene need for pads and tampons?

Feb 5, 2018

Pay it no mind.

Celebrating Black life means elevating the narratives of Black trans people, and we must start by saying the names of Black trans people who have prematurely lost their lives to institutional violence.

Feb 5, 2018

Kiman Kaur

Education—an important value to many. But for Kiman Kaur, education has become the most vital piece to her life and to her family.

Jan 29, 2018

Lilly Kanishka

A director, a student, an activist. Lilly Kanishka’s experiences and passion for social justice has become the driving force for her involvement in student organizations.

Jan 29, 2018

‘Let America Be America Again’

As Black History Month approaches, Langton Hughes’ poem ‘Let America Be America Again’ encourages us to consider where we have been (from pre-colonization; to 1776; to 1936; to 2018).

Jan 8, 2018

Environmental racism

What is environmental racism and why does it matter? Here’s a brief overview of the U’s 2018 MLK Week theme.

Nov 13, 2017

Collisions and intersections

In higher education, we are beginning to discuss the intersection of social identities. However, we are far from constructively supporting intersectionality.