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November/December 2021
LUMINOSITY SHINING A LIGHT ON DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION AT OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY
the deliberate dialogue issue Plus:
Bringing Home More Than Laundry by Mindy Windholz Meet the Student Professionals of ODEI The Art of Conversation by Dr. Carroll
& More!
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Volume 1, Issue 4 November/December 2021
FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT VALUES
In this issue, we’re offering some perspectives on engaging in dialogue. Before you read ahead, I wanted to share some of my own experiences with difficult dialogue. I hope my openness and vulnerability encourage you to be as well. I used to strongly dislike any conversation that I thought had the potential to make me uncomfortable or anxious. As a young person, I did not learn any helpful strategies for communicating in a healthy and productive way that dissuaded me from running away from difficult dialogue. As such, I did not put myself in situations where I could practice articulating my stance and doing so without creating or accepting harm, as well as preserving a relationship or connection. At a really helpful turning point for me in early adulthood, I begin excavating the why around avoidance and at the core of the issue was fear of not being enough or being accepted and a fragile ego. So often we enter conversations with an idea of how the other person or people will react or engage – ultimately clouding the encounter.
Over the past two decades, I have worked diligently to continue practicing leaning all the way in to what may not feel so great and striving for a healthy and productive interaction. What’s your typical response when a conversation feels uncomfortable or difficult to you? I encourage you to take some time to think about it, especially before your next connection with a friend, loved one, peer, or colleague.
You are worth regular, healthy dialogue. Keep shining, Stars!
Talia Carroll, Ph.D. (she/her) Vice President for Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
DIVERSITY EQUITY INCLUSIVITY RESPECT LEARNING COMMUNITY JUSTICE
MISSION To work collaboratively with campus partners, alumni, and friends of Oklahoma City University to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice through policy, education, and strategic initiatives that advance our university’s mission.
STATEMENT
Volume 1, Issue 4 November/December 2021
WHAT'S HAPPENING IN
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DEI@OCU
Indigenous Peoples Day shifts to newly-opened Oklahoma museum
Every second Monday in October, OCU collectively observes Indigenous Peoples Day to celebrate and commemorate the contributions of the various Native and Indigenous tribes of Oklahoma. This year, the Office of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion partnered with the recently-opened First Americans Museum Oklahoma to bring OCU students, faculty, and staff right to the action of FAM's incredible day-long celebration by providing a shuttle to and from the museum festivities which included Native dancers, food vendors, demonstrations, a mayoral proclamation, and even a screening and discussion with Native filmmakers - truly something for everyone! The DEI office was an official sponsor of the IPD celebrations and looks forward to building a relationship with the important new museum.
School of Theatre works toward DEI goal
The OCU School of Theatre is now deep in their years-long work of creating and maintaining spaces for its student artists, staff, and faculty to engage in all aspects of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Throughout this and previous semesters, several members from various local and national arts and entertainment organizations have met with students and faculty alike to begin dialogues regarding a wide range of DEI concepts in works such as Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird and The Laramie Project and their connections to the current global environment as well as featuring a "Women in Theatre" panel discussion about women in leadership positions in the arts here in Oklahoma. VP Carroll has also facilitated workshops and presentations for incoming and enrolled student artists and faculty members regarding the different types of conscious and especially unconscious bias in practices, protocols, policies, and even course descriptions at the SOT. This important work is on-going. Be sure to watch @theatreOCU on Instagram and Facebook for updates on how their DEI journey is progressing!
Community Resource Pantry opens Oklahoma City University's Resource Pantry of Hope is now open and ready to serve the campus community. The pantry is located on the fourth floor of the Clara E. Jones Administration building (directly east of the Gold Star Memorial building) and is open every other week on Thursdays from 4 to 5:30 pm. The pantry is full of food items and also gently used (or sometimes never worn!) clothing. If you'd like to schedule a different time or have a specific need or you would like to learn how to donate items to the Pantry, email Janelle Warlick at jwarlick@okcu.edu.
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Volume 1, Issue 4 November/December 2021
COMING SOON Leadership Workshop Using an inclusion and equitycentered approach, Dr. Talia Carroll will be opening a limited registration leadership workshop for 20 leaders across campus. Leaders will receive a free copy of the primary book that will be used for discussion. If you are interested in this opportunity, please indicate your interest by scanning the code and completing the form!
for Staff and Faculty
Deliberative Dialogue Sessions for Students
OCU was selected as 1 of 10 universities to participate in a partnership led by the Kettering Foundation and NASPA – Student Affairs Professionals Administrators in Higher Education to learn how various university communities engage in deliberative dialogue.
“Deliberative forums introduce participants to multiple options for addressing a central issue or question and allow time for each option, and its tradeoffs or drawbacks, to be discussed by participants. The goal of a deliberative forum is to help participants consider issues from multiple perspectives and to engage in conversation with others who may hold different - and sometimes passionately held - opinions.” -NASPA
OCU STUDENTS WILL BE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN 2 FORUMS IN SPRING 2022
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Volume 1, Issue 4 November/December 2021
RECOMMENDATIONS Based on the 1929 novel of the same name by Nella Larsen, Passing tells the story of estranged childhood friends Irene and Clare who live opposite lives in Jazz Age New York City one as a Black woman and one as white. Shot in black and white to emphasize the point, Passing asks who is allowed in certain spaces (and who is the gatekeeper of those spaces) and what happens when someone is rejected or even ejected from them either by an outside force (like Clare's racist husband or segregated society) or by their own free will? How elastic are these boundaries? It also explores the sexual politics of the era and gender roles within marriage, polite society, and behind closed doors. With powerhouse female performances from Tessa Thompson, Ruth Negga, and actor-turned-first-timedirector, Rebecca Hall, the film raises tough questions and doesn't provide any easy answers. AVAILABLE ON
Are you looking for a relatively short, yet meaningful read? If so, The Four Agreements is an excellent choice. The book, written by Don Miguel Ruiz, highlights four approaches or "agreements" we can consider as we navigate our daily lives. Ruiz, in one passage, shares, “when we believe something, we assume we are right about it to the point that we will destroy relationships to defend our position” (p. 68). Consider diving into this read and committing to some deep selfreflection. If you decide to read this book, let us know what you think by emailing your reflections to us at dei@okcu.edu or send us a DM on Instagram @okcudiversity. AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE BOOKS ARE SOLD
NOVEMBER 10
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Volume 1, Issue 4 November/December 2021
THE ART OF CONVERSATION Engaging in Open, Healthy Dialogue
How and what we communicate when in conversation with one more people is usually influenced by:
CONTEXT
PERSONALITY
COMMUNICATION STYLE
AVAILABLE ON
UNDERLYING ASSUMPTIONS
Context
What are the specific circumstances of the situation in which you're communicating? What is your relationship to the person or persons that you're communicating with?
Personality
Are the folx you're communicating with extroverted or introverted? What tones, gestures, postures or facial expressions can you expect from these specific folx?
Communication Style
In what ways are you communicating with these humans? Is it faceto-face? Is it via text message or email? How might your words be received in various forms? What are the non-verbal or written communications happening in your connection?
Underlying Assumptions
What are your beliefs about the folx you're connecting with conscious and unconscious? How will those beliefs possibly impact your connection with them?
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Volume 1, Issue 4 November/December 2021
...THE ART OF CONVERSATION CONTINUED Think about it! Have you entered a conversation with a story you made up about the person, people, or circumstance? Is the story influenced by whether it’s a “difficult” conversation? There are many approaches to consider when you are connecting with someone else. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Know the purpose of the conversation prior to engaging. Do you have talking points?
Share facts. Summarize what you hear the other person or people communicating.
Name the assumptions you might be making ahead of the communication or connection.
Set expectations or goals for the conversation.
Acknowledge when defensiveness or strong emotions activate. Think about your plan to address them in the moment, as necessary.
Be curious with the conversation partner(s) when information is not clear. Ask questions.
Check-in to determine if the goals or intended outcome of the communication or connection was met at the end.
Volume 1, Issue 4 November/ December 2021
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BRINGING HOME MORE THAN LAUNDRY ADJUSTING TO HOME LIFE OVER THE HOLIDAYS
you kno w id ? d U.S. households do about
35 billion loads of laundry every year!
By Mindy Windholz (she/hers) DIRECTOR OF UNIVERSITY COUNSELING
You’ve also had some time to adjust your routine as you have been away from home
Congratulations! You’ve made it
and as fall makes way for winter, that means a
through the semester, and one that
return to home with your parents, caregivers,
looks a little more typical this year.
and others in your life that you have not seen
Juggling classes, studying, practice
in some time. Your life and routine may look
time, rehearsals, athletics, and
more different than ever before, especially if
socialization is no small
this is your first semester away from home,
accomplishment, especially when done
and it may feel a little strange returning home
well and in the time of a pandemic.
to rules and routine that you have not lived
You’ve had almost a full academic year
with in recent months.
to perfect your schedules, which may also include staying up a slightly (or
Here are some tips and suggestions to help
more than a little) late at night.
you prepare for you return and how to help make it a smooth transition:
➤BRINGING HOME MORE THAN LAUNDRY CONTINUED ➤
1. SETTING EXPECTATIONS
Have the conversation with those in your home about what has changed in house rules and regulations since you have been gone. That includes if there is a curfew or rules about how many friends can be in the home at one time. You may also have spent more time and money going out to eat or changing your eating habits since you have been home, so conversations about what is different may be helpful, too. Your caregivers may also want to spend more time with you, while you may want to see your friends. You can consider sharing time with everyone and talking about what you all can do together that will make memories.
2. LATE NIGHTS, LATE MORNINGS
Your sleep schedule may have changed since you have been on campus and may be totally unrecognizable. Let your caregivers know what has changed and talk with them about what is different and what you may need in terms of sleep. If you need readjusting to your schedule let them know that, too.
4.ENGAGE IN DIALOGUE
You may have changed quite a bit since leaving home. You may be on a journey of discovering identity, exploring diverse viewpoints, and redefining your relationship with concepts you have never challenged before. Sometimes, this can cause some discourse with caregivers and it may not be safe to engage in conversation about new experiences. But if caregivers are open to new expressions and are open to being educated, do invite dialogue and conversation.
3.ACKNOWLEDGING ADULTHOOD
Something that may be difficult for caregivers if seeing how much you’ve changed as an emerging adult. Independence, decision-making, choices you've made, and responsibilities you've had this semester may not translate when you return home. Being able to thank your caregivers for the support and encouragement they have given you over the years can help you to talk about how you appreciate the support they have given you in order to help you grow.
5.DON'T FORGET TO PACK YOUR PATIENCE
Be patient with yourself and your caregivers, especially if you have been more independent in your schedule since you have been in school. Adjustments can be tricky, so being gracious with yourself and open to change can help to welcome in changes.
AND MOST IMPORTANTLY...
Find the enjoyment in the company of your caregivers. As emerging adults, time spent together over break can begin to set the tone for your evolving relationship and create stronger ties for the years ahead.
Volume 1, Issue 4 November/ December 2021
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THE NECESSITY OF DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS WRITTEN BY TRAKEL PINKSTON (HE/HIM) We need to have difficult conversations. Without them, nothing gets solved. Society has a difficult time talking about issues that may cause discomfort and chose instead to sweep these problems under the rug. The truth of the matter is that these problems don't fade away and potentially worsen over time. We will never achieve solidarity this way. In fact, this style of engagement will only drift everyone further and further apart, damaging all chances of equity. For example, one of the conversations I find challenging is about equity in education. I am passionate about continuing to have this conversation because it is something that has affected me my entire life. Public education is often one-size-fits-all that can potentially damage a significant portion of students from kindergarten through their senior years. Not every student is not guaranteed to succeed and many require additional accommodations to assist their personal needs. However, those accommodations are not always ready or available due to staff shortages or cost. Further more, the majority of underresourced schools are located throughout under-resourced communities which means that unless a family can afford a specific living environment, the school-aged children in those families can't access additional resources those students might need to succeed. Mental health resources in K-12 schools are also either under-funded or non-existent. Many students struggle with simply surviving, let alone learning. Public education is meant to prepare people for the next phase of life be that college or another path, but some folx never make it past the first phase. I have suffered the loss of multiple fellow students from my age group, and I've experienced close calls with my friends and myself because mental health resources do not exist at the elementary, middle, and high school level. And no one is talking about it. Problems remain unsolved because these conversations are not happening. Policy-makers and those with authority make sweeping decisions that affect large populations before offering to listen to the folx in those populations. Granted, it's usually impossible to please everyone, but listening to other people - especially people who may not agree with you or have had the same life experiences as you have had - is a vital step in the direction of healing and real, lasting socioeconomic equity.
KEL HOMETOWN MAJOR
3 THINGS ABOUT ME
Clinton, Oklahoma Political Science
My favorite TV show is In The Heat of the Night from the '80s. I absolutely love competitive bingo with my grandparents. I'm constantly learning new things about my Indigenous heritage.
ONIPAʻA
Volume 1, Issue 4 November/ December 2021
WRITTEN BY KYRA GOMES (SHE/HER) Onipaʻa To be resilient, steadfast Onipaʻa
Since childhood, I was told to stand firm in myself and my beliefs Onipaʻa An endangered tongue; traditions forbidden; history whitewashed; still we Onipaʻa silenced, bound, desecrated; still we Onipaʻa our elders arrested, reefs destroyed, Queen overthrown; still we Onipaʻa Do I move? Do I mourn? Where is the how-to manual on stolen identity I have to Onipaʻa Young children like Gladys Brandt rubbed lemons on themselves to bleach their skin They had to Onipaʻa So we Onipaʻa; for them Onipaʻa not a verb but a people We create a foundation for the future children of Hawaiʻi We are Onipaʻa We fight back for Mauna Kea and breathe the stories of Gladys; of our ancestors We are Onipaʻa I am Onipaʻa
HOMETOWN
Hilo, Hawai'i
KYRA
DOUBLE MAJOR
Music Theatre & Vocal Performance 3 THINGS ABOUT ME
I love to roller-skate! I most recently played Belle in a sold-out production of Beauty & the Beast in my hometown. My Rottweiler, Maile, can count in Hawaiian!
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Volume 1, Issue 4 November/ December 2021
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WHY THEY HATE US
REFLECTION BY ROBERT GONZALEZ (HE/HIM)
I have the pleasure of serving as the student professional for Disability and Access Services within the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. As I've journeyed through college, I discovered a passion for working with college students, specifically in programs that are DEI focused. Through these experiences, I found myself looking at a career in higher education working in some aspect of DEI. In order to enrich my understanding, I look to advisors and mentors to gain insight on current trends and research that are important to the field. Recently, my NASPA (National Association of Student Personnel Administration) mentor recommended the book Why They Hate Us: How Racist Rhetoric Impacts Education. This book is a collection of research essays from various psychologists, sociologists, and higher education professionals. Their main focus was conducting research on the political rhetoric during the 2016 presidential election. Diving deeper, the researchers aim to identify patterns of effects on undocumented and immigrant students ranging from elementary to high school. It is uncovered that Latinx students faced an increase of disproportionately targeted marginalization during and after the election. In learning about the rhetorical strategies used in politics, I see how these tactics have the power to change the public view on modern racism. It not only affects society as a whole, but has drastic effects on the development of children in the K-12 public school education system. In terms of higher education, the research highlights trends in increased racism and racial violence towards members of marginalized communities. We are also given an insight in how to improve society through social justice efforts, specifically in the fields of education. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is interested in topics related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and the field of education. Those who have an affinity for politics will also enjoy this as Donald Trump's presidency is the focal point of the study.
ROBERT HOMETOWN MAJOR
Sugar Land, Texas
Music Education
3 THINGS ABOUT ME I play the double bass. The Loaded Bowl is the best meal in Oklahoma City.
''
I know every single word of Britney Spears
'
Gimme More.
Volume 1, Issue 4 November/ December 2021
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RECHARGING YOUR BATTERY 5 Ways to Recharge Prioritize sleep – Studies show that not getting enough sleep is the cognitive equivalent of getting drunk. You wouldn't take a test drunk, why do it tired?
By Gina Heinsohn (they/them) Graduate Assistant for ODEI
Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or exhausted but figure it's all part of "being an adult" and you just need to “tough it out?” Here’s a little secret:
it does NOT have to be that way! In the words of Shawn Achor, author of The Happiness Advantage, “Resilience is how you recharge, not how you endure.” It is not about how well you can tough it out but that you take care of yourself along the way.
think of it this way: If your computer battery is down to 10% do you force it to stay on long enough for you to finish that paper? No! The computer will shut down when it runs out of battery, regardless of if you’ve finished or not. You have to plug it in and recharge it. Your body is no different. It is important to recharge your body to keep it working in peak mental, emotional, and physical shape!
We are excited to welcome Graduate Assistant, Gina Heinsohn (and Peanut!) to the Office of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion team at OCU! They will be working with us on various initiatives and projects from now until the end of the Spring 2022 semester.
Take breaks – Give yourself short breaks to unplug, stretch, or go for a walk.
Stay Nourished – Instead of grabbing coffee or a candy bar to keep yourself going, give your body something it can actually use like water and protein.
Be Reasonable – Try not to give yourself more than you can possibly finish in a day. Set realistic expectations for yourself and plan ahead.
Ask for Help – Nobody expects you to do everything on your own. Seek help when you need it. Professors, classmates, tutors, counselors, and friends are some of your best resources on campus. You’re not burdening anyone by asking for help.
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Volume 1, Issue 3 November/December 2021
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
NOV OK SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK: MACBETH 4-14 Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park is celebrating its 37th season with their outdoor
Shakespeare Gardens welcoming patrons back to live, professional performing arts with the classic tragedy of the murderous Scots, Macbeth. Performances run Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Student & group discounts available at okshakes.org.
NOV CURIOSIDAY: DIA DE LOS MUERTOS PARA LOS 6 ANIMALES AT SAM NOBLE MUSEUM
Join the team at the Sam Noble Museum in Norman to learn all about Día De Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead! Day of the Dead is a Hispanic holiday that is celebrated all over Latin America. Part of a 3,000-year-old tradition, visitors will learn about celebrating the life that is no longer with us. As a natural history museum, visitors can also learn about and celebrate the animals who are no longer with us due to falling extinct to the world’s pressures. All activities are bilingual in both English and Spanish, and are free with general admission. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for children at samnoblemuseum.ou.edu.
LYRIC THEATRE'S A CHRISTMAS CAROL
NOV 17DEC 23 2 rotating casts bring the Dickens classic to
life in an immersive outdoor theatre performance at historic Harn Homestead in OKC. Be aware that there is no seating and patrons walk from scene to scene following Scrooge through his adventure. Tickets are available now at lyrictheatreokc.com.
NOV 20DEC 11
LIGHTS ON BROADWAY Cruise down historic Automobile Alley for the district's annual holiday open house! For 4 Saturdays in a row, attendees can enjoy family-friendly activities, special promotions, sidewalk entertainments, over-the-top holiday decor and so much more! Admission is free!
OPENING NIGHT CELEBRATION @ BRICKTOWN BALLPARK
DEC 31 Ring in the New Year at OKC’s largest family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration! Wristbands are $8 and
grant access to live entertainment throughout the evening. This includes music, mural competition, and a children’s area with the themed hands-on art projects. Stay tuned to artscouncilokc.com and @artscouncilokc on Instagram and Facebook for the artist lineup and participating vendors!
NOV Thanksgiving 24-26 Break
DEC 10
Last Day of Classes
DEC 22JAN 3
Holiday Break
Volume 1, Issue 4 November/December 2021
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HOLIDAYS & OBSERVANCES NOV 28-DEC 6
HANUKKAH
DIWALI
DEC 10
HUMAN RIGHTS DAY
NOV 4
DECEMBER 12
OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE DAY
DEC 26-JAN 1
KWANZAA
m e b v er o N
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
DEC 8
ROHATSU (BODHI DAY)
m e ber c e D WORLD AIDS AWARENESS MONTH
NAME A STAR IN OUR GALAXY Have you experienced someone doing intentional DEI work?
WE WANT TO CELEBRATE THEM!
Use the QR Code or visit our Linktree!
CONTACT US DEI@OKCU.EDU 405-208-5030 LINKTR.EE/OKCUDIVERSITY
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT We acknowledge that we gather on land indigenous to the Comanche, Osage and Wichita tribes, and lands extending throughout the state originally inhabited by the Apache, Quapaw, and Wichita and Affiliated Tribes. We acknowledge that the 39 sovereign tribal nations inhabiting what is now Oklahoma originate from all four corners of the North American continent, and that American indigenousness is hemispheric in scope. We honor the land and the people who have stewarded it throughout generations, and we commit to continuing to learn how to be better stewards of the land we inhabit.
