SIU will celebrate Diversity Week with guest speakers, luncheon, art and more Aug. 26-30

August 16, 2024

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. - "Creating a Culture of Belonging for All" is the theme as Southern Illinois University Carbondale celebrates Diversity Week 2024 with a variety of special events and activities Aug. 26-30.

Plans include a luncheon, guest speakers, an interactive art exhibit, a voter registration drive, panel discussions, social activities and more.

"Diversity Week will provide wonderful opportunities for people to engage with one another, cultivate unity, foster inclusion and nurture a sense of belonging in a variety of meaningful ways as they expand their knowledge and celebrate their differences," said Renada Greer, executive director of the Student Multicultural Resource Center and TRiO Student Support Services. "We encourage everyone to join us in celebrating the diversity that makes SIU and this region so special."

Equality luncheon celebrates women's rights

The Women's Equality Day luncheon commemorates the 19th Amendment to the Constitution giving women the right to vote and celebrates the numerous other achievements of women, while also recognizing the ongoing struggles women face with systemic inequities and the fight for equal rights in many other arenas.

Angela K. Upchurch, acting dean and professor of law for SIU's Simmons Law School, will be the guest speaker for the luncheon. It will take place from noon to 1 p.m. Monday, Aug. 26, in the Cambria Room at the Student Center.

Everyone is welcome to attend. There is no cost, but those planning to participate are asked to pre-register by sending an email to [email protected] by noon Friday, Aug. 23.

Kickoff offers information, entertainment

The Diversity Week Kickoff and Student Multicultural Resource Center (SMRC) Welcome Back event is happening from 1 to 3 p.m. Aug. 26 on the Student Services Building pavilion. The fun afternoon will introduce participants to the resources and services available through the SMRC. It will also feature music, games, food, prizes, special activities and special guests Mr. Twist Balloons and Honeybeez Snowballz.

Honoring women and their contributions

The third annual Women in Action Ceremony, held in collaboration with Networking Empowering Women, is a time to recognize the "everyday heroes" who lead, inspire and serve at SIU and in the community by working to overcome racism and advocate for equity and inclusion.

The awards presentation is set for 4 p.m. Aug. 27 at the John C. Guyon Auditorium at Morris Library. All are welcome to attend, and a short reception will follow.

Diversity is….

The popular "Diversity is" project returns to SIU for a third year in 2024, giving everyone the chance to add their perspectives to this special project. From Deft Lunch, the project features a variety of "diversity" letterforms, created by diverse designers of all races, genders, ethnicities and sexual orientations to serve as a visual metaphor for the beauty of diversity.

From 2-4 p.m. Aug. 29, anyone may stop by the Faner Breezeway and add their thoughts and insights. Rob Lopez, associate professor of program in the School of Art and Design, will facilitate the event.

Additional activities planned

The Student Multicultural Resource Center and various other SIU constituency groups will host numerous other special events during Diversity Week, including daily NAACP voter registration drives from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Student Center.

Pizza with the Provost Office at noon Aug. 27 will give students, faculty and staff the chance to learn more about the provost's office and staff and how they help students achieve success.

Roundtable and panel discussions to enhance participants' understanding of other peoples and their experiences include:

• Global Inclusion: Building a Culture of Adjustment and Belonging for All, Aug. 29, noon-1 p.m., Student Services Building, Rooms 150-160.
• A Global Perspective on Diversity Student Panel, Aug. 29, 3-4:30 p.m., Student Services Building, Room 170.

Find the complete schedule of events and more information about Diversity Week 2024 online.

The Office of the Vice Chancellor for Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is sponsoring the Diversity Week celebration with assistance from other units and offices throughout campus.

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