2008 Woodie Awards
University still drops ball on diversity issues
Staff editorial
Issue date: 10/1/07 Section: Staff Reflections
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"Crumbs from the Table of Joy" will mark the first time that the University of Northern Colorado will feature a play written by a black author with a predominantly black cast.
That is truly sad.
This is 2007, why has it taken the University so long to produce a play by a black playwright, with a black cast? Some may say that it's because there is a small African-American population at UNC, and barely a minority population to speak of. We at The Mirror believe that while that statement may be true, the university hasn't made an effort to actively recruit minorities.
The administration has failed to use the cultural centers in a useful manner to recruit minorities. And once they are here they find an environment that is hostile toward them, especially when the administration makes it appear that promoting diversity is not important to the university.
Last year when the administration conducted a survey about diversity on campus, many expected there would be some kind of action taken this year. Other than a brief mention during this year's convocation, we have yet to see what the plan is.
All around, there is more that could be done here at UNC. Using Marcus Garvey, Cesar Chavez, A/PASS and NASS as resources with minority recruitment as well as providing a support system once they arrive would be a start.
With "Crumbs from the Table of Joy" being produced this year, we can only hope this signals in more plays, music acts and events with black, Hispanic, Asian, Native American and Arab experiences at heart.
Because frankly, it's about time.
Mirror Reflections are the opinion of The Mirror's editorial board: Lacey Cooley, Christina Romero, Nate Taylor, Donnae Wahl , Lindsey Walker and Mitch Woll. Let us know what you think! E-mail us at editor@uncmirror.com.
That is truly sad.
This is 2007, why has it taken the University so long to produce a play by a black playwright, with a black cast? Some may say that it's because there is a small African-American population at UNC, and barely a minority population to speak of. We at The Mirror believe that while that statement may be true, the university hasn't made an effort to actively recruit minorities.
The administration has failed to use the cultural centers in a useful manner to recruit minorities. And once they are here they find an environment that is hostile toward them, especially when the administration makes it appear that promoting diversity is not important to the university.
Last year when the administration conducted a survey about diversity on campus, many expected there would be some kind of action taken this year. Other than a brief mention during this year's convocation, we have yet to see what the plan is.
All around, there is more that could be done here at UNC. Using Marcus Garvey, Cesar Chavez, A/PASS and NASS as resources with minority recruitment as well as providing a support system once they arrive would be a start.
With "Crumbs from the Table of Joy" being produced this year, we can only hope this signals in more plays, music acts and events with black, Hispanic, Asian, Native American and Arab experiences at heart.
Because frankly, it's about time.
Mirror Reflections are the opinion of The Mirror's editorial board: Lacey Cooley, Christina Romero, Nate Taylor, Donnae Wahl , Lindsey Walker and Mitch Woll. Let us know what you think! E-mail us at editor@uncmirror.com.
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