Reframing the Conversation from Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) returns on Sept. 8, 2021 at 12 p.m. both virtually and in person at the Marriott Library’s Gould Auditorium. The first Reframing the Conversation of the 2021-22 academic year is titled “Inclusive Histories Matter,” which will explore the importance of sharing the perspective and contributions of all people as a comprehensive view of history.  Speakers will include:

• Camden Alexander, opinion writer, The Utah Daily Chronicle
• Kathleen Spencer Christy, Ph.D., educational consultant
• Edmund Fong, Ph.D., associate professor and chair, Division of Ethnic Studies and associate professor, Department of Political Science
• William A. Smith, Ph.D., professor and chair, Department of Education, Culture & Society and professor, Division of Ethnic Studies
• Moderator: Stuart Culver, Ph.D., dean, College of Humanities

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion strives to contribute to an ecosystem of learning by hosting annual and monthly events aiming to educate all its participants on varying aspects of experience and identity. Reframing the Conversation brings together experts from across campus and the community to spark important conversations around racism, othering and safety.

“We first launched Reframing the Conversation in February 2020 with an in-person panel on expanding the portrayal of Black men,” said Mary Ann Villarreal, vice president for EDI. “As COVID-19 safety policies were implemented, it was relaunched as a monthly virtual panel series with the September 2020 iteration discussing the rise of anti-Asian hate during the pandemic. This academic year, we are excited to be able to offer these critical conversations both in-person and virtually with other campus partners, covering topics that are timely and relevant to the communities we serve.”

While continuing to identify and remove barriers and bias incidents targeting the U campus community, persistent strides toward an institution where every member is given the opportunity to be educated on equity, diversity and inclusion efforts will remain at the forefront of EDI’s work.

Community members can join Reframing the Conversation each month and view past events here.