Question 1

There are many groups on Dickinson campus dedicated to issues of race and few that deal with gender/sexuality. There are no groups that deal specifically with issues of class. How do you feel about the lack of diversity within Dickinson’s social action groups?

"There is not a lack of diversity within the groups themselves, rather there is a lack of programing. How many dinners can one organization have? And are they the most effective way to educate students? We would do better to hire a diversity assistant who could more effectively manage the existing groups." ~ Caitlin Conyngham, member of the Women's Center executive board

"I think that Dickinson’s social action groups are VERY diverse. The issue at hand is that most students who are members of these clubs are from similar social classes. One would find that the underrepresented classes (the upper class) in these social action groups tend to keep themselves separate from these organizations. They also show no interest in creating and promoting [the issue]. Also, when addressing issues of race, gender, and sexuality, social class often surfaces as a topic of discussion…" ~ Shawn Nannan, member of UMOJA and LAC

"As Americans we are socially constructed to believe that class is an issue that shouldn't be discussed. I think that since it is not completely visible on campus, much like sexuality, people do not feel the need to address class issues. However, unlike sexuality, a person from a less affluent back ground does not get spiteful things said about them directly. You can not help the financial situation you were born into and for that reason nobody criticizes you. THe most ironic thing is that sexuality is the same way but due to ignorance and misconceptions people feel that this is not the case" ~Shawn Werner, member of Spectrum

"Class is the hidden common denominator. It’s the one you can’t really tell just by looking at someone. Issues of class are very underrated, however, I do believe they are gaining more recognition and awareness. It should be addressed more, bring it up with the Office of Diversity Initiatives." ~Afif Kulaylat, Co-President of the Middle Eastern Club

"I feel like the groups on Dickinson’s campus reflect for the most part what students feel need to be addressed. The fact that there are so many groups dealing with race and a lack thereof dealing with gender/sexuality represents to me, that more students are concerned with race as an issue on campus than gender or sexuality and finally class. This does not mean it is not important but, I think that this means students do not feel there is an issue to be discussed when it comes to those issues (at least not as much as there is in comparison with racial issues)". ~ Rick Raymond, member of the African American Society

"We find that people are sick of talking about race, in one of our racial discussion groups. Ultimatly when you are talking about race, class comes up. One of the biggest things that divides the campus is class and so people are becoming into talking more and more about class. We have another group that is into talking about gender as well." ~ Mara Waldhorn, President of Sustained Dialog.

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