October 2024
The
Monthly DICE
Digest
volume 2 - Issue 2
A Message from our Vice President
vice president and chief diversity officer
Rochelle D. SMith
Warm greetings! We are fully amid Fall. As we celebrate the vibrant tapestry of our outdoor surroundings let us do the same of our diverse identities. This month, we continue to honor Hispanic Heritage Month and LGBTQ+ History Month, recognizing the strength and resilience within these communities. Just as the sun rises each day, illuminating our path, may our collective optimism shine brightly as we embrace our unique stories and shared values.
This is a time, for reflection and renewal, and I encourage us to draw inspiration from these themes of hope and togetherness. Additionally, may we cultivate an inclusive environment where every voice is valued, and every identity is celebrated. I invite you to look below under our “Belonging at SLU” and “Resources” sections this issue to learn more about the vibrant faith-based holidays that those in our community will celebrate in October.
Together, let’s bask in the warmth of understanding and support, fostering a community where all can thrive. Here’s to a month filled with joy, unity, and the promise of a brighter future.
In This Issue
Through our monthly DICE Digest, we hope to reflect the beautiful and rich diversity of our community and opportunities to connect with one another as we seek to build belonging across SLU. We invite you to scroll through the newsletter or jump to a page using the hyperlinks below.
get to know dice, your one stop shop for diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging(DEIB) at slu!
DICE Strategic Priorities, Mission & Vision
This past year, DICE crafted a strategic plan in consultation with our community partners and key stakeholders. The strategic plan includes a new vision and mission statements as well as 5 priority areas for cultivating belonging across SLU. The vision and mission statements are now live on our website and embody the Jesuit mission of SLU. The 5 priority areas include: Infrastructure & Systems Change, Climate & Culture, Access & Success, Community Engagement & Outreach, and Truth, Healing, & Reconciliation. Holistically, the priority areas to focus DICE's energy and efforts as collaborative partners, coalition builders, initiators of belonging, and innovators for cultivating belonging and pathways to flourishing for all students, faculty, and staff.
Mission
- Cultivate a culture of belonging at Saint Louis University to support the flourishing of all campus community members.
- Provide a comprehensive, community-engaged approach to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging that is in alignment with our Jesuit mission.
- Eliminate barriers preventing full participation in community life, social change, academic achievement, and career advancement.
Vision
We seek to build a community of belonging at Saint Louis University where ‘care for the whole person’ (cura personalis) embraces diversity, fosters shared understanding, and promotes relationships within and between the many ways we show up in the world. We are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment rooted in Ignatian spirituality where everyone feels valued, respected, equipped, and empowered. Students, faculty, and staff will contribute to the university’s mission and engage in cross-cultural experiences that uphold the dignity of all people.
Belonging at SLU
DICE is proud to support multiple Cultural and Belonging Grants that focus on Hispanic culture and heritage. Awardees from the Latine Community this grant cycle include community led projects such as Here Always, Always Here project that brought Jonathan Menjivar, the host of the podcast Classy, to campus (sponsored by the Department of American Studies) and Yoga in Espanol, a series of yoga sessions held on campus in partnership with the Languages, Literature and Cultures Department.
Nathalie Villalobos, President of Oasis (SLU’s student group that celebrates and educates about Caribbean, Latin American and Hispanic culture), “Oasis is hosting events during Hispanic heritage month to amplify our presence on campus and show that we are here as a united and vibrant community. This month is significant as it honors the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Latinos, Hispanics, and Caribbeans. We are grateful to the Cross-Cultural Center for supporting us and making our first Baile possible!”
@oasisatslu
everyone can be a builder of belonging at slu
Truth, Healing and Reconciliation
SLU Commemorates the 10th Anniversary of OccupySLU
OccupySLU commemorates its 10th anniversary in October, marking a decade since the student-led movement demanding racial justice at Saint Louis University in the wake of the Ferguson protests and police killings of Michael Brown and VonDerritt Myers, Jr. This commemoration is significant as it reflects on the lasting impact of the OccupySLU movement, the student activism that brought attention to systemic injustice, and the university’s commitment to equity.
The week includes events like the *Whose Streets?* documentary screening (October 14), a panel discussion on justice and viewing of an OccupySLU video (October 15), a prayer service to honor lives lost to police violence (October 16), and a facilitated discussion focused on the future of the Clocktower Accords, emphasizing our commitment to continuous dialogue rather than a one-time conversation (October 17). These are just a few highlighted events to foster reflection, dialogue, and commitment to ongoing justice efforts. We encourage all SLU faculty, students, and staff to attend and engage in these important conversations, as we continue to work toward a more just and inclusive campus.
explore community events
The Center for the Digitization and Curation of African American History will be in St. Louis for our 2024 Community Curation Program!
During the month of September, the National African American Museum of History and Culture (NAAMHC) we will be working with great community partners in St. Louis and East St. Louis, developing engaging programming, and digitizing materials for local institutions, organizations, and community members. We invite you to explore the community centered events through NAAMHC and the Smithsonian while they are here in St. Louis partnering with community organizations such as the Descendants of St. Louis University’s Enslaved (DSLUE). Register today through the links on the website!
deib is a collective effort, get to know your deib resources at slu!
Designing for Justice
Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX
Everyone deserves the opportunity to live, learn and work in environments that promote a sense of belonging. If you (or someone you know) is experiencing an unsafe environment, the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX is here to support you through the reporting process. We invite you to deepen your understanding of reporting processes here at SLU to contribute to a community where all can thrive.
The mission of the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX is to promote a deep understanding and appreciation among the diverse members of the Saint Louis University community, to promote justice and equality in educational and employment opportunities, as well as to lead efforts to create an inclusive academic and work environment.
Designing for Access
Voter Registration
Election Day is November 5th! SLUVotes Student Team, SLU faculty and staff, and the Center for Social Action have been hard at work educating campus on supporting voter registration this year. Voting advocates have been tabling once a week, oftentimes more, to ensure the campus community is registered to vote. National Voter Registration Day (NVRD) hosted five tables around campus, including South Campus both on NVRD and the day before.
- On October 3rd, tables will be in Residence Halls and Athletic Facilities.
- October 9th is the last day to register in Missouri and vote in the Busch Student Center if you are a city voter.
Designing for Well-Being
Faith Based Accommodations
Saint Louis University provides a calendar of holidays, observances and religious holy days — sourced from Jesuit Resource — for informational purposes. To learn more about which days SLU is formally closed or class is not in session, please view the University's holiday calendar and the University academic calendar.
The following definitions, also sourced from Jesuit Resource, should be considered when reviewing the calendar.
- Meaningful: Days marked as meaningful are not work-restricted by definition but may be particularly significant to people attending or working at Saint Louis University.
- Special Worship: Special worship days are not by definition work-restricted but may involve a special worship or observance.
- Work-Restricted: Days denoted as work-restricted are recognized denominational sacred or holy days where religious beliefs, laws/doctrines, tenets, canons or theology restrict or limit work (be it physical or mental). This definition may include academic examinations, classroom activities and research or out-of-classroom learning experiences.
Designing for Understanding
Speech, Expression, and Civil Discourse
We want to affirm that SLU is committed to free expression and civil discourse, as outlined in our Policy on Speech, Expression, and Civil Discourse. The policy is clear: We embrace engagement with challenging ideas as a necessary, if sometimes uncomfortable, component of our mission to pursue truth.
We invite you to reflect on what expression and dialogue means to us through an Ignatian Lens. In the spirit of our policies, we have a Statement of Philosophy (linked below) that was guided by a survey of peer institutions, discussions with stakeholders and analysis of faculty and student feedback.
announcements and events
special feature for the 10 year commemoration of occupyslu and the clock tower accords!
OccupySLU to Repair DSLUE:
Where Are We Now?
The OccupySLU Panel Discussion marks the 10-year anniversary of the student-led OccupySLU movement, and the uprising that arose in the wake of the tragic shootings of Mike Brown and VonDerritt Myers, Jr. The panel will reflect on the movement's impact, its connection to the long history of racial injustice, including enslavement and the lasting harm of systemic racism and police brutality. Participants will discuss how these past and present struggles intersect, with a focus on efforts for justice, repair, and healing. The discussion will assess progress in the ongoing fight for racial justice, the quest for repair, and the work that still lies ahead to achieve true equity and healing for the affected communities. The discussion will feature voices from activists and scholars, including Professor Justin Hansford, Jonathan Pulphus, Robin Proudie and will be moderated by Dr. Christopher Tinson.
- Date & Time: Monday, October 14 from 5-7 PM
- Location: Center for Global Citizenship
Hearts on Fire: Prophetic Jesuit Voices from Ignatius to Today
This event, hosted by the Division of Mission & Identity, will explore the enduring commitment of the Jesuit tradition to social justice, from St. Ignatius of Loyola to contemporary advocates like Fr. Heithaus. Through a thoughtful dialogue, we will examine how the teachings and actions of Jesuit leaders have shaped our understanding of justice work and continue to inspire us today. Participants will engage with the historical and modern prophetic voices that have called for justice, equity, and compassion, highlighting the integral role of Jesuit values in our mission at Saint Louis University. Join us for this meaningful conversation that connects our past to our ongoing commitment to social justice in the present and future.
- Date: Tuesday, October 15 at 12 PM
- Location: DuBourg 102
10th Anniversary of #OccupySLU: Prayer Service and SayTheirNames
Led by Campus Ministry, in recognition of the 10th anniversary of #OccupySLU, this remembrance event will honor the lives lost to police and law enforcement violence. The Prayer Service and Say Their Names will include reflections on justice, interfaith prayers, and a communal commitment to advocate for systemic change. Participants will come together to remember those who have been affected by police brutality and to renew our dedication to fostering equity and justice within our community. This event aims to uplift the voices of victims and their families, emphasizing the ongoing need for accountability and reform.
- Date: Wednesday, October 16 at 4 PM
- Location: Clocktower
Moving Forward While Looking Back: OccupySLU 10th Anniversary Opening Reception
This special event will commemorate the 10th anniversary of OccupySLU by unveiling a video that reflects on the movement’s lasting impact, featuring insights from key student, faculty, staff, and community organizers involved in the grassroots movement of OccupySLU. The reception will feature a fireside chat with Alisha Sonnier, Jonathan Pulphus, former members of Tribe X, and President Dr. Fred Pestello, moderated by Dr. Bulky Gbadegesin. This dialogue will highlight the power of student activism, the significance of OccupySLU, and its role in shaping SLU’s commitment to justice and equity.
- Date: Tuesday, October 15 from 5-7 PM
- Location: Center for Global Citizenship
MLK Scholars Teach In: OccupySLU and the Power of Student Activism
In honor of the 10th anniversary of OccupySLU, the MLK Scholars Teach-In: OccupySLU and the Power of Student Activism will highlight the critical role of student leadership in advancing social justice on our campus. Led by the MLK Scholars, this event will foster meaningful discussions on systemic injustice, reflecting on the significance of OccupySLU and the broader movement for racial and economic equity. The teach-in will underscore the transformative power of student activism and its lasting impact on the university's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. By amplifying student voices and their role in shaping institutional change, this event seeks to inspire continued progress toward justice on campus and in the community.
- Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15 at 7:30 PM
- Location: Clocktower
Reflect, Reimagine, Renew: Reigniting the Flames of Justice through the Clocktower Accords
This event invites an open discussion focused on the future of the Clocktower Accords, emphasizing our commitment to continuous dialogue rather than a one-time conversation. Attendees will engage in a meaningful exchange about the progress made under the Clocktower Accords, sharing insights and ideas for moving forward. This gathering aims to renew our collective dedication to justice and equity on campus, fostering collaboration and accountability as we work together to uphold the principles of the Clocktower Accords in our community.
- Date: Thursday, October 17 at 5-7 PM
- Location: Center for Global Citizenship Auditorium
additional upcoming events & opportunities
Production of “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry
There is a special night for Black students, faculty/staff and alumni on October 4 at The Grandel Theater. Free tickets for you and your guest are available here. The show starts at 7:00pm, but the pre-show gathering begins at 6:00pm.
Set on Chicago’s South Side, Lorraine Hansberry's celebrated play concerns the divergent dreams and conflicts in three generations of the Younger family: son Walter Lee, his wife Ruth, his sister Beneatha, his son Travis, and matriarch Lena. When her deceased husband’s insurance money comes through, Mama Lena dreams of moving to a new home and a better neighborhood in Chicago. Walter Lee, a chauffeur, has other plans: buying a liquor store and being his own man. Beneatha dreams of medical school. Hansberry's portrait of one family’s struggle to retain dignity in a harsh and changing world is a searing and timeless document of hope and inspiration. Featuring local favorite Anita Jackson as Lena Younger.
Directed by Kathryn Bentley.
“A Raisin in the Sun” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com
DICE Sponsor of Upcoming “Tu Salud” Health Fair with Telemundo
DICE is proud to be an advocate sponsor for the upcoming first annual "Tu Salud" Health Fair, presented by Telemundo St. Louis and along with community partners.
The “Tu Salud” Health Fair is a FREE admission event that will offer a wide variety of free health screenings for the entire family and information about resources for the community to keep living a healthy life. This health fair connects Latinos to free screenings, facilitates access to health care providers, and distributes critical health and wellness information via informational booths, speakers and discussion panel-all in one place and at one location! Join Telemundo St. Louis and other health organizations at this great community event.
- When: Saturday, October 5th, 2024
- Time: 9am to 3pm
- Location: North County Recreational Complex
- Address: 2577 Redman Ave, St. Louis, MO 63136
UnMasc (A Men’s Storytelling Event)
During Violence Prevention Month The Village PATH and Undo Bias will be co-hosting the production of UnMasc (A Mens Storytelling Event). UnMasc 3: Changing the Narrative on Masculinity" is a storytelling event featuring cis-men and non-binary folks, various ages, races, and both straight and queer sharing their own personal stories of how ideas of masculinity have affected them. Vulnerable and powerful stories are moving and transformative. Food and music included in the ticket price. Tickets are $10 for students (OURGUEST24), $20 for general admission. All proceeds go to providing free therapy for Black men.
- Date: Saturday, October 5th, 2024
- Time: 6pm
- Location: Il Monastero
- Address: 3050 Olive St., St. Louis, MO 63103
Save the Date: Saint Louis University's Black in STEAM Celebration
Join us for the Black in STEAM Celebration & Awards Ceremony on Friday, November 8, 2024, at 6 pm in the Wool Ballrooms, Busch Student Center at Saint Louis University! Hosted by the Division of Diversity and Innovative Community Engagement and the Black Alumni Association, this special evening will honor the remarkable contributions of Black students and professionals in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.
This year's theme, “African Americans and the Arts,” celebrates the profound impact of African American creativity across various artistic disciplines. The event will feature live performances, awards, and opportunities to network with others passionate about STEAM.
Don’t miss this chance to celebrate excellence in the Black STEAM community! Register today and nominate deserving individuals for recognition. Let’s come together to inspire future generations in STEAM.
For questions or additional information, please contact Aubra Ladd at Aubra.ladd@slu.edu.
Coming Out Day
Join us for National Coming Out Day programming on Friday, October 11, 2024, from 11 am to 2 pm at the Center for Global Citizenship Auditorium! Hosted by the Division of Diversity and Innovative Community Engagement (DICE), Rainbow Alliance, and the Student Involvement Center, this event celebrates the power of visibility and the LGBTQ+ community.
Come enjoy Coming Out cupcakes, screen print and paint your own tote bag, and learn about the significance of Coming Out Day—honoring the anniversary of the 1987 March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. Discover resources available for queer students, faculty, and staff on campus, and engage in educational discussions on the importance of coming out as an act of resistance.
faculty equity & leadership development
- Creating Resilient Group Norms in Politically Polarized Classrooms
- When & Where: Thursday, October 3rd from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm on Zoom
- Description: The session will begin with an overview of best practices in creating resilient group norms in classrooms during this politically polarizing time. The speakers will offer insights and guidance and attend to intersectionality (e.g., race, gender, classroom context or discipline) of the faculty member who may be delivering or implementing the guidance. The session will then become a discussion period for attendees to ask questions and brainstorm what elements will be useful in their own classrooms.
- Culturally-Aware, Mission-Informed Mentoring for Senior and Midcareer Faculty
- When & Where: Thursday, October 31st from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm on Zoom
- Description: We’re excited to invite you to a dynamic workshop led by Dr. Colette Taylor, Professor and Executive Director of Seattle University's Center for Social Transformation and Leadership. This session, "Culturally-Aware, Mission-Informed Mentoring for Senior and Midcareer Faculty," promises to be an enlightening experience. Dr. Taylor will guide us through a mentoring approach that is both culturally sensitive and aligned with institutional values. Expect to engage in stimulating discussions and hands-on exercises that will help you elevate your mentoring practices and enhance faculty development. This is a fantastic opportunity to refresh your mentoring skills and contribute to a more inclusive academic environment!
- Faculty Mentoring “Speed Dating”: Filling Your Mentoring Network
- When & Where: Thursday, November 14th from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm in the CGC Auditorium
- Description: Calling all faculty in search of new faces, ideas, connections, and fun! This event will use mentor “speed dating” to quickly meet-and-greet, remove the usual awkwardness, and spark new mentoring relationships. Event is co-sponsored by the Joint Provost-Faculty Senate Faculty Gender Equity Committee.
Connect with DICE
What would make this newsletter better? You!
We would love to learn what you would like to see in our newsletter and we are happy to amplify SLU community efforts that increase diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging across identities, communities, and scholarship.
Use the links below to connect or email Allison Brewer, AVP of DICE at allison.brewer@slu.edu.
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