By Jillian Orlando
“Diversity is not just skin deep; it’s deeper than that; it’s wider than that,” said the Dean and Director of Affirmative Action Donnie Perkins. “It’s more beautiful than that.”
Dean Perkins addressed students and their concerns at the Diversity and Identity Conference held Saturday, Nov. 16.
The conference was one in a series of Developing Leaders Conferences for Northeastern students. The 16 students in attendance met at 135 Shillman for an “international luncheon” to start off the day.
The rainy Saturday morning could have been cited for the sparse attendance. Out of the students who signed up for the conference, 11 were a no show and this was nearly half the group.
The goal of the events is to give student leaders the tools they need to be successful and informed leaders.
“It’s an enlightening experience, and I get to meet people,” said Emmanuel Brioche, a sophomore computer engineering major.
Representatives were from the Ujima Scholars, OASIS, Sigma Delta Tau, Sigma Sigma Sigma and the Delta Phi Epsilon sororities.
The conference focused on acceptance and understanding for all members of the human race, regardless of race, gender, creed, culture or sexual orientation. It began with a game called Bafa Bafa, a cultural simulation which explores the development of stereotypes. The role-playing game of culture clash forced participants to struggle with language barriers and social protocols as they took on the imaginary cultures.
Two educational sessions followed the opening event. The first session discussed the importance of understanding personal history and sharing cultural and historical differences. The second session, led by Maggie Sawada, an NU Calling employee, focused on the positive aspects of human differences and the goal of embracing diversity. In Sawada’s presentation, she explained the importance of kindness and an open mind.
“People may forget what you say, and forget what you do, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel,” Sawada said.
The conference concluded with a presentation called “Taking the Next Step,” with Dean Perkins. He spoke of the importance of diversity in the cultural and educational growth of Northeastern students and all individuals.
“When you have more and different perspectives, it tends to open your mind and give you more ideas,” he said.
He also referenced the importance of leaders who embrace diversity and work towards progress.
“You have one opportunity, one lifetime to make a difference,” he said.
Perkins explained steps to increase acceptance and understanding among all people. These guidelines include sharing knowledge of diversity, remaining open to difference and change, sharing personal culture, and simply saying “hello” to those you pass by on the street. He said overall sharing among people, friendliness and understanding will promote good will and encourage connection among members of society, and the students agreed.
“It’s nice when the university encourages students to interact,” said Kim Connick, a middler journalism major who was one of six members representing the Sigma Delta Tau sorority at the conference. “We’ll take [information] back to our chapter.”
Students interested in getting involved with diversity awareness on campus have various options. Two leadership conferences focusing on specific aspects of diversity will take place during the winter quarter. The Enlightened Leader Conference on Jan. 25 will examine spiritual diversity on campus. Another conference on Feb. 22, will focus on discussions of racism, gender and sexual orientation. These conferences are open to any students who hold a leadership position within the Northeastern community, as well as students who are interested in becoming leaders.
