Eliot 4 Food For the Soul
Description:
In order to get residents to start having those conversations about diversity and
background once again, I decided to post some seemingly bold statements around my floor
with a pen to allow residents to respond and share their thoughts. This way, they do not
feel burdened by another "cheesy" (as they tell me) diversity program, but
still have an opportunity to see that diversity is still important. My goal is to
treat the contemporary issues associated with diversity such as abortion
rigths, affirmative action, language barriers and the idea of "English as
the Official Language," the link between ethnic/race background and
educational opportunities afforded thus far, and other such pertinent issues to the
college student. It is also very important to have a follow-up activity or discussion
allows them to share their feelings with each other in a formal environment, but they will
certainly discuss these issues amongst themselves as they read them. Instructions/Things
Needed:
Banner paper
Marker
tape
Other Considerations:
Don't be afraid to write some very heated statements; you'll get far more participation.
For example, you'll elicit a much better response from:
"Women need to buck up and take responsibility for sexual promiscuity and poor
decision making. End abortion now!"
than "Abortion is sometimes used as an alternative means of birth control. This
behavior is wrong and therefore abortion should be outlawed for this particular
purpose."
Though the second statement uses an argument to back up the assertion, residents are not
as likely to respond. It's better for this program not to support any statements. Just
make them and allow the residents to think about them and come up with their own
conclusions either independently or in small groups.
Bart M. B.
School: Washington University in St. Louis
email: [email removed] |
