PULLMAN, Wash. — The Washington State University and local communities can pledge a declaration against hate and violence and for diversity at the first Stand for Diversity event, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Sept. 20, at the Beasley Performing Arts Coliseum.
The event will begin with a reception, music, free food and an opportunity to sign the declaration. Everyone is encouraged to sign the pledge before the event online at a Web site, www.diversity.wsu.edu.
At 5:30 p.m. WSU President V. Lane Rawlins will deliver the keynote address and lead a moment of silence. Remarks will be made by Felicia Gaskins, associate vice provost of human relations and diversity; Charlene Jaeger, vice president of student affairs; Mitch Chandler, Pullman mayor; and Jesse Keene, president of the Associated Students of WSU.
Following the program, a one-person play, “Faces of America,” will begin at 6:45 p.m. in the coliseum. The free performance details nine stories based on the lives and recollections of a diverse set of American voices. Critics and audiences have given the show favorable reviews.
The Office of the President is sponsoring the event, part of recommendations made by last year’s Council on Campus Climate. Rawlins appointed the 30-member council to address concerns, including violence, racism, homophobia, and the recruitment and retention of faculty of color.
The event’s purpose is to educate the community about prejudice and violence that occur on campus and in the community at large. The event also will highlight the different resources on campus and the special programs planned for the upcoming academic year.
For more information, contact Milton Lang, special assistant to the president, at 509/335-5506.
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