Today, universities across the nation work to increase diversity across their campuses and are often missing the opportunity to prioritize developing campus cultures and leadership that support new students of color. When I began my studies at PLU, I was blessed to arrive with a cadre of six high school friends, who knew my life story, and would complete their educations alongside me. Thanks to James Mamerto, Act Six Cadres 1+2+3+4, and my mentors in Lakewood, WA I was able to maintain a connection to a community that looked like and valued me. My community was a blessing and outlet for my feelings of otherness that can commonly arise during the first year in a predominantly white institution. I have also come to believe there is a need for the boards, faculties, staffs and students of universities much like PLU to bring intention and energy to campus cultures and spaces that respect, celebrate and breathe in the differences among the communities they’ve worked hard to buil...
An exploration of Diversity, Justice, and Sustainability reflections from PLU Student Leaders, Advocates, and Activists. Spring 2021 we are asking contributors to reflect on anti-racism.