Taking a Stand
Virginia Wesleyan’s Office of International and Intercultural Programs sponsors “Stand Against Racism” week of events
By Staff | April 26, 2011
True to its mantle of “promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people” the YWCA started a national movement in 2007 with the establishment of “Stand Against Racism,” a series of events aimed at eliminating racism by raising awareness and advancing “cultural competency.” Four years later, VWC is celebrating with its own list of diversity-focused happenings on campus, April 26-29.
Students, faculty and staff are invited to express and explore their cultural competence through art and activities going on all week, including opportunities to create your own bracelet or necklace (like the one below) to show the diversity in your life. Stop by the Office of International and Intercultural Programs (OIP) for details.
Movie presentations will be held in the OIP office all week. Titles include Out at Work, about American workers fighting for their rights amidst ridicule and discrimination to end anti-gay policies in the workplace; Crash, about modern-day race relations in America; and Babies, chronicling the first year of life for four babies from around the world. Visit the OIP office for times and details.
On Friday, April 29, Lorna C. Donatone, Market President and Chief Operating Officer, Sodexo, Inc. will speak on this topic: "Take a Stand Against Racism Pledge," beginning at 11 a.m. in the VWC Monumental Chapel. Donatone serves as a director on the Board of the Sodexo Foundation. She has worked to develop Sodexo's Employee Network Groups, demonstrating her commitment to diversity, inclusion, mentorship and training managers and employees. She currently serves as National Executive Sponsor for Sodexo's African American network group.
Going on all week: Sign the “Take a Stand Against Racism” Pledge, located on the OIP office door; add yourself to our “I am…” Banner; and attend four or more OIP diversity events and receive a Diversity Week certificate.
For more information, contact Lena Johnson with OIP at 757.455.3116 or e-mail ljohnson@vwu.edu. For more info on Stand Against racism, visit www.standagainstracism.org.