During the Spring 2024 semester, the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Accessibility is hosting four 'CommUNITY Meetings', which are provided to enhance knowledge and understanding of the unique lifestyles and perspectives in and around the SDSU and Brookings communities. Attendance at these events is completely voluntary, and sponsorship of these events varies by event.
OMAA strives to build UNITY by learning together.
We would love to see you at these educational opportunities in the coming months!
To request virtual attendance, please email Shelly Bayer.
Individuals with disabilities who would like to attend these events, please contact the Office of Multicultural Affairs & Accessibility at 605-688-5585 regarding any special accommodation needs. It is requested that individuals inquiring about auxiliary aids such as sign language interpreters and alternative format materials notify OMAA at least 7 working days in advance. Thank you.
Rising Together
Tuesday, February 20, 2024, from 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. in the Pheasant Crest Room of the University Student Union (SSU 253).
Speaker: Dr. France A. Davis
Sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Accessibility (OMAA)
Reverend Dr. France A. Davis, a distinguished activist in the Civil Rights Movement, will enlighten attendees with his compelling personal experiences. Drawing upon his rich history of advocacy, he will not only offer valuable insights into the past but also provide actionable strategies for making a positive impact in the present.
Won't You Be My Neighbor: Embracing Difference While Creating Community Belonging
Wednesday, February 28, 2024, from 3-4:30 p.m. in the Campanile Room of the University Student Union (SSU 169).
Speaker: Willette Capers
Sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Accessibility (OMAA)
A global neighbor is someone who is aware of and understands the wider world- and their place in it. They take an active role in their community and work with others to make our planet more peaceful, sustainable, and equitable. This interactive session looks at what it means to be a good neighbor as we continue cultivating an inclusive community.
Move from Bystander to Upstander
Wednesday, March 20, 2024, in the Lewis & Clark Room of the University Student Union (SSU 262 A & B)
This presentation will occur twice, the first from 3-4:30 p.m. and the second from 6-7:30 p.m. The same content will be delivered in both sessions, so attendance at both is not necessary.
Speaker: Jen Dreiske
Sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Accessibility (OMAA)
Join South Dakota Voices for Peace's Chief Operations Officer, Jen Dreiske, in her nationally acclaimed intervention training. Attendees will become empowered to advocate for others by being equipped with skills to safely and realistically disrupt situations involving discrimination.
"Don't Look Back" - The Sharing of an Inspirational Journey
Tuesday, April 2, 2024, from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Pheasant/Crest Rooms of the University Student Union (SSU 253 A-C).
Speaker: Achut Deng
Sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Accessibility (OMAA), School of American & Global Studies, Briggs Library, and the Office of International Affairs (OIA)
Author Achut Deng shares her journey of survival, resiliency, and hope based on her personal journey as a refugee born in South Sudan and coming to America at age 16 as recently captured in her memoir, "Don't Look Back".