The University Counseling Services Diversity Statement:
Counseling Services is sensitive and committed to intercultural diversity, inclusion and social justice and examining the impact of systemic and historical issues of power, privilege and access to resources at the individual, the institutional and structural levels. We are committed to an active process of critical thinking and self-reflection to ensure that all students are treated fairly and competently.
Our service and training missions strive to create environments that staff and clients alike are treated with respect and valued across all differences. Thus, our policies, procedures, activities, relationships, and interactions with individuals and groups in the campus community are consistent with these values. Discrimination and harassment are not tolerated at Counseling Services. The hiring of staff and selection of interns and fellows are consistent with the University Affirmative Action Guidelines
If you have observed or experienced an incident of bias or hate, discrimination and/or harassment, please report the incident to the Bias Response Team by contacting Meghan Barrett, Director of Intercultural Student Engagement, at 207-780-4788 or another appropriate campus resource
Becoming an ally
Educate yourself about the experience of individuals who have marginalized identities, examine your own identity and biases, and learn to act in ways that contribute to increased safety and wellness for all, instead of creating further harm. “When one suffers, we all suffer.” – Gandhi
Recommended resources:
- Scene on Radio is a podcast that tells stories exploring human experience and American society. In this episode, the concept of whiteness is explored – where it comes from, what it means and what it has been used for: Scene On Radio Podcast’s Season 2: “Seeing White”
- 103 Things White People Can Do for Racial Justice
- Dear White People…
- 14 Organizations and People Working to Support BIPOC Mental Health During the Coronavirus Crisis
- Five Ways To Support Multiracial People
- A Guide to being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Youth: This resource shares why it can be tough for transgender and nonbinary people to bear the burden of educating others about their lived experience. This guide was created to help your education on the basics of gender identity and expression. You’ll be able to better support the trans and nonbinary folks in your lives, and help to create a safer, kinder and more accepting world.
- Understanding Non Binary People
- Achieving Health Equity: Why it Matters and How to Take Action – Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
For more information, please see our BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ pages.