Resources to promote social justice on campus–allies and dialogue

On behalf of NIRSA’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Commission, I invite you to take some time this week to review the resources below. Whether you choose to integrate them into an upcoming staff training or you are simply reading them to expand your understanding on the vital topics of equity, diversity, or inclusion, these resources can help shape your perspective on social justice.

“Allies and Microaggressions”

By Kerry Ann Rockquemore | Inside Higher Ed

This “Dear Kerry Ann” addition of Inside Higher Ed’s Career Advice column answers a question from “Awkward Ally,” who has just recently learned what a microaggression and wants to take action when he/she observes these moments happening among colleagues. However, despite wanting to do the right thing he/she often feels frozen in the moment and is struggling as to how to best help in these situations.

Kerry Ann provides a detailed response, relating to “Awkward Ally” through personal experience, and then providing some concrete ways for allies to overcome the feeling of freezing in the moment. She talks about the benefits of reframing the role so allies are engaging in ‘microresistance,’ as opposed to ‘reacting to microaggressions.’ She then discusses the “open the front door” (OTFD) technique for engaging: Observe, Think, Feel, Desire.

As both the letter and the response point out, microaggressions occur daily—against students, staff, and faculty—and when we see them it can be hard to know just how to react. However, their effects are cumulative and significant; it is essential we all work hard to engage in mircoresistance on our campus, in our facilities, and in our everyday lives. Doing so will not only help create a more positive living and working environment for all, but it will allow professionals to model strong ally behavior for student employees and student patrons.

Read the editorial

“How to have better political conversations”

By Robb Willer | TED Talk

This TED Talk, social psychologist Robb Willer talks about how moral values can actually be used to bring people together, rather than divide them. He offers ideas on how to approach those who are ‘on the other side’ of an issue and even some tips on how to be more persuasive when talking about divisive issues.

Campus recreation works hard to serve and support the entire campus population. The extreme divisiveness surrounding politics and issues of identity has made significant impact on the users of our facilities, and this has shown itself in direct and indirect ways. This is likely to continue during the next school year. Including information like this talk in foundational trainings for student and professional staff can help the campus rec continue to be both a place for everyone and a place that upholds NIRSA values.

Watch the video

Add your voice to the conversation

We encourage you to connect with colleagues from across North America on this important topic. Join NIRSA’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Community of Practice today to find more resources or to participate in the online discussion.